The reputation of Breton gardens is well established and for good reason! A rather mild climate in some islands and coastal regions of Brittany and a soil with a tendency to acidity make this area a place conducive to the exuberant growth of many plants.
The specificities of the Breton climate
Brittany has a temperate oceanic climate. Rainfall is less abundant than one might think, but it is frequent and of low intensity.
The weather can change very quickly, going from an important cloud cover to a mild sun. However, the sunshine rate is much higher in the coastal areas than inland.
The temperature variations are attenuated by the currents and the sea winds allowing a homogenization between the seasons and between the day and night periods.
However, there are six distinct climatic zones depending on the wind direction and the presence or absence of the sea.
A few kilometers away from each other, we can have a very important contrast on the sunshine time, for example 220 hours in Armor against 120 hours in Argoat (inland).
A possible acclimatization
Contrary to other regions located north of the Loire River, many plants can be found in Brittany that cannot be acclimatized elsewhere. Thus, apart from the famous cauliflowers and other Breton artichokes, there are so-called Mediterranean plants such as agaves, aloes, but also palms and mimosas.
Other 'exotic' plants adapted to this climate, bamboos, banana trees or cannas will find their place in the well sheltered gardens of Brittany.
The acidic nature of the soil and the frequent rains also allow the cultivation of heathland plants that like these conditions. Thus, rhododendrons, camellias or hydrangeas will have nothing to envy to those of our English neighbors! As for heathers, they grow spontaneously on islands and moors which they magnify with their long-lasting blooms.
Grass grows well in Breton gardens, where it can thrive thanks to optimal climatic conditions and without the need for expensive watering. It is an ideal base for mixed borders and other flowerbeds where large blue delphiniums will grow alongside hollyhocks or peonies, but also lavaterias and star asters.
Rose lovers will also have a great time, spangling the beds with aerial gypsophila. As far as climbing plants are concerned, hops grow very well as well as clematis and their elegant flowers. The pergolas are bursting at the seams with heavy bunches of wisteria or the delicate, fragrant flowers of honeysuckle.
The Breton garden: a paradise for plant lovers!
