Sunny blooms & hardy greens: Gardening on the Costa Blanca – CSN News

The southern Costa Blanca enjoys a sub-desert Mediterranean Climate with hot and dry summers. Winters are mild, but spring and fall can be wet.

For successful gardening, it is important to select the right plants.

Palm trees define the landscape. Other trees that are well-suited include olive, lemon, mulberry fig, almond and pomegranate. Aromatic plants, such as lavender, rosemary and mint, add culinary value and scent to the region.

Cacti and succulents like agaves, aloes, sedums, and crassulas are perfect for low-maintenance gardens. Daisies, bougainvillaeas, geraniums and verbenas are some of the colourful flowers that brighten up outdoor spaces. Thyme and Sedum, instead of grass, are great groundcovers that conserve water without sacrificing a beautiful appearance. Gravel reduces water loss, and helps to prevent weed growth.

Pergolas can be covered with climbing plants, such as honeysuckle and wisteria, to add protection and aesthetic appeal. Cypress hedges are a great way to add privacy as well as year-round greenery.

The oil will dry out very quickly in areas with high winds and along the coast. Windbreaks, sturdy plants, or lattice screens help protect delicate greenery. Plants that are resistant to wind, such as rosemary, hibiscus lantana bougainvillaea and lavender, can withstand the harsh climate.