In addition to light, tropical houseplants require regular watering and humidity to thrive. Most tropical plants prefer to be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged, so be sure to water them when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. To increase humidity levels, particularly in drier climates, consider misting your plants regularly or placing them on a tray of pebbles filled with water.

Peatlands absorb and store large amounts of carbon dioxide, which is incredibly useful in tackling climate change. The government aimed to ban the use of peat in compost by 2024 – although that has been extended until 2030.

When choosing plants for your garden, it is important to consider their size, shape, color, and texture. By selecting a variety of plants that complement each other, you can create a visually interesting and cohesive garden design. It is also important to consider the seasonal interest of plants, as different plants bloom at different times of the year, ensuring that your garden looks beautiful year-round.

3D garden design tools are not just beneficial for homeowners, but also for landscapers and garden designers. By creating a 3D model of the proposed garden, professionals can effectively communicate their vision to clients, ensuring that everyone is on the same page before any construction begins. This collaborative approach can lead to a more efficient and successful project, with fewer misunderstandings and revisions along the way.

In conclusion, garden design is an art form that allows you to express your creativity and create a space that reflects your personality and enhances the beauty of your home. By carefully planning and selecting the right elements, you can create a garden that is both functional and beautiful, providing a space for relaxation, entertainment, and connection with nature. With a little bit of time, effort, and creativity, you can create your perfect outdoor oasis.

One of the key principles of garden design is the use of focal points. Focal points are elements that draw the eye and create visual interest in a garden. These can include a beautiful tree, a sculpture, a water feature, or a striking plant arrangement. By strategically placing focal points throughout your garden, you can create a sense of balance and harmony in the space.

This spring, the Royal ­Horticultural Society, together with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, is calling on people to take part in its ‘Bumbles on Blooms’ campaign, capturing pictures of bumblebees and uploading these to the iNaturalist app or website (uk.inaturalist.org) to help better understand which garden flowers they prefer. 

Furthermore, the presence of houseplants has been linked to a range of mental health benefits, including reduced stress, improved mood, and increased productivity. The act of caring for plants can be meditative and therapeutic, providing a sense of purpose and connection to nature. In a world increasingly dominated by screens and technology, tropical houseplants offer a welcome respite and a chance to reconnect with the natural world.

5. Fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata): The fiddle leaf fig is a tropical tree with large, violin-shaped leaves that add a touch of drama to any space. This plant requires bright, indirect light and regular watering to thrive indoors, but its striking appearance makes it a popular choice for plant enthusiasts.

2. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae): With its striking orange and blue flowers that resemble a bird in flight, the Bird of Paradise is a tropical plant that makes a bold statement in any room. It requires bright, indirect light and regular watering to thrive indoors.

Gardens are much more than just patches of grass and flowers; they are extensions of our homes, providing a space for relaxation, entertainment, and connection with nature. Garden design is the process of planning and arranging the elements of a garden to create a harmonious and visually appealing outdoor space. Whether you have a large backyard or a small balcony, there are endless possibilities for designing a garden that suits your style and needs.

Formal garden designs are characterized by geometric shapes, symmetry, and structured plantings, while informal designs are more relaxed and natural, with curving pathways and mixed plantings. Contemporary garden designs often feature clean lines, minimalistic plantings, and modern materials, while traditional designs are inspired by historical gardens and feature classic elements such as topiaries, formal hedges, and statuary.

5. Repotting: As tropical houseplants grow, they may outgrow their pots and become root-bound. Check the root system periodically and repot your plants into a larger container with fresh potting mix as needed.

4. Peace lily (Spathiphyllum): The peace lily is a popular tropical houseplant known for its elegant white flowers and glossy, dark green leaves. It is tolerant of low light conditions and can help to purify the air, making it a great choice for bedrooms or offices.