Winter
and spring in the subtropics and tropics
is very short and mild, often regarded as
a let-down for lovers of classic temperate
flowering trees, bulbs and cottage plants.
However, the subtle variations
in these seasons result in a continuous
production of fabulous and glorious tropical
coloured flowers and foliage. And yes, even
the cottage plants will still perform provided
the right species and cultivars are chosen.
In the midst of this
‘cold period’ many of my garden
plants have come into colour…but not
just the flowers. Aloes are vibrant in their
winter-stressed red tones, patterned bark
of most deciduous trees are more pronounced
and the aged stalks of ornamental grasses
indicate its almost time for cutting back.
Whoever said the winter garden is dull and
boring needs a trip to the tropics and subtropics.
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