In the UK, summer can often feel like a Mediterranean escape, and with the right plants, you can bring that feeling to your garden. While there are many plants that can create a Mediterranean garden scheme, some are better suited to container-growing than others. Here are five Mediterranean plants that thrive in pots and will transport you to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean, even if you're miles away from the sea.
Olive Trees
Olive trees are a classic choice for Mediterranean gardens, and they're perfect for pots. They add a relaxed, laid-back vibe to any outdoor space, and their ability to thrive in pots makes them an excellent option for those with limited garden space. The terracotta olive pot from Crocus is a beautiful and practical choice for olive trees, and they're available from B&Q and Amazon. Personally, I think olive trees are a must-have for any garden, as they instantly evoke images of sunny Mediterranean holidays.
Lavender
Lavender is a popular choice for gardens, and it's easy to see why. Not only does it produce a soothing fragrance when it's in flower, but it's also one of the best drought-tolerant plants you can add to your garden. This makes it an ideal choice for hot, dry summers. English lavender 'Hidcote Blue' from Gardening Express is a popular variety, and M&S offers a lavender plant in a pretty terracotta pot. In my opinion, lavender is a must-have for any garden, as it adds a touch of color and fragrance to the warmer months.
Bay Trees
Bay trees are another go-to for Mediterranean gardens, and they're perfectly suited to container life. They're a versatile plant that looks good whatever the season, and they can be paired with classic terracotta pots for a natural look, or with ceramic and recycled polyrattan options for a more contemporary feel. These classic Italian terracotta pots from Crocus are available in a range of different sizes, and YouGarden and Thompson & Morgan offer bay trees that thrive in pots. From my perspective, bay trees are a great choice for any garden, as they add a touch of elegance and fragrance to the outdoor space.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a brilliant option for small garden pots, as it's a tough, easy-to-grow herb that's safe for dogs. It's also incredibly climate-resilient, and its flowers attract bees and other pollinators, adding a bit of extra life to the garden. B&Q and Crocus offer rosemary plants in terracotta pots, and they're available in a range of sizes. Personally, I think rosemary is a must-have for any garden, as it's a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes and adds a touch of fragrance to the outdoor space.
Citrus Trees
Citrus trees might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Mediterranean plants, but they're an excellent choice for gardens with milder microclimates. They're eye-catching and can reward you with scented flowers, fruit, and that unmistakable Mediterranean feel. Bloom & Wild offers an orange tree in a seagrass basket, and YouGarden offers a Sicilian lemon tree. In my opinion, citrus trees are a great choice for any garden, as they add a touch of color and fragrance to the outdoor space and can provide a delicious harvest of fruit.
In conclusion, these five Mediterranean plants are perfect for pots and will transport you to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean, even if you're miles away from the sea. Whether you're looking for a fruit tree, an evergreen shrub, or vibrant flowers, there's something for everyone, and they'll all thrive in heatwaves and dry summers. So, why not bring a touch of the Mediterranean to your garden this summer?
