Expert tips for creating Mediterranean garden in backyard

Creating a Mediterranean garden in your backyard is like bringing a piece of coastal bliss to your own outdoor space. These gardens, inspired by the countries along the Mediterranean Sea, offer a tranquil retreat filled with fragrant plants and drought-tolerant beauty.

To define a Mediterranean garden, think of vibrant colors, aromatic scents, and a relaxed atmosphere reminiscent of seaside destinations like Spain and Italy. These outdoor sanctuaries have gained popularity recently due to their low maintenance nature and their ability to evoke a vacation mindset right at home.

To get started on creating your own Mediterranean oasis, consider incorporating plants like lavender, rosemary, olive trees, santolina, and agave. These plants not only add visual appeal but also support pollinators and require minimal water usage, making them perfect for a Mediterranean garden.

When designing your garden, begin by planning the hardscaping elements such as gravel pathways and stone walls. Gravel is a popular choice for its relaxed feel and seamless integration with planting beds. Once you have the hardscaping in place, select plants that complement the design and provide texture and color to the space.

Repetition is key in achieving a calming effect in your garden, so consider repeating certain plants throughout the space. This not only creates visual harmony but also simplifies maintenance.

When it comes to implementation, consider working in phases to manage costs and workload. Start by tackling smaller sections of your garden and gradually expand over time. Fall or after the first frost of the year are ideal times to begin planting.

To inspire your Mediterranean garden design, consider these stunning examples:

1. A Large-Scale Gravel Garden: Embrace gravel as a low-maintenance ground cover, as seen in Tuscany.
2. Tall Shrubs for Privacy: Create a secluded retreat with drought-resistant plants like those found in Ibiza.
3. Wild and Free Rock Garden: Combine rocks and native plants for a natural look, as seen in various Mediterranean gardens.
4. Blooming Layers: Create visual interest with alternating rows of plants of varying heights.
5. A Fragrant Escape: Enjoy scented blooms that fill the air with delightful fragrances, as seen in Croatian gardens.
6. Lush Garden Beds: Arrange plants carefully to create full and healthy garden beds, even in dry climates.
7. So Many Shades of Green: Appreciate the diverse hues of green found in Mediterranean flora.
8. Stones Big and Small: Use rocks of varying sizes to create paths and garden walls, adding texture to the landscape.
9. A Cooling Respite: Incorporate water features like pools or ponds to provide relief from the sun’s heat.

By following these tips and drawing inspiration from these stunning gardens, you can create your own Mediterranean paradise right in your backyard.

Repurposed article originally published in the spruce