I’ve been extremely lucky in my three score years, plus a few months, to have visited several so-called ‘exotic’ destinations, including the breathtaking Maldives, searing hot, dusty Kenya and a number of the stunning Caribbean islands. They all evoke wonderful memories of lush, tropical plantings, fantastic foliage and striking orange, red and yellow blooms.
Holidays abroad can hold very special memories and as gardeners, many of us will come home to find our tropical gardening dreams and inspiration shattered, as we step off the plane, reaching for a brolly, and a warm coat. But, fear not, despite the UK’s sometimes inclement weather, our exotic horticultural dreams can still become a reality.
Admittedly (and in the spirit of full disclosure) it’s unlikely we’ll be harvesting ripe bananas or mangoes from our…
