The spring is blossoming and the days are getting longer, and owners of orangeries in the UK will be enjoying the many benefits of a light-filled space with views over the garden. It’s the perfect time to introduce some new plants to create an environment that provides a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor spaces.
Here are some of the best plants to enhance your orangery and make it a beautiful and relaxing place to be this spring.
Best plants for the interior of your orangery
Citrus trees and shrubs
Orangeries were first used to cultivate citrus fruits in cooler climates during the winter, hence the name. They are still perfect places to do this today, particularly if you have a larger south-facing structure that gets lots of sunlight. The citrus trees are generally small (growing to heights of less than 1.5m) and will grow well in tubs.
The RHS advises that some types of citrus trees are easier to grow than others, so pay attention to the care instructions before making a decision about which ones to buy. In general, lemon trees are the easiest to grow in our climate, alongside some varieties of limes, calamondin oranges and kumquats.
You may be able to buy citrus trees and shrubs from larger garden centres or specialist online sellers. They tend to have higher price points than many other plants, so take care to ensure you are buying a healthy specimen (such as one that is bearing fruit or flowers). Lemon trees may be able to live outdoors in the summer, but check the care instructions.
Olive trees
Olive trees are attractive trees with a silvery canopy and small star-like flowers in spring. They are relatively easy to grow in containers, and usually well in orangeries. Once the risk of frost has passed, you can place your olive tree in a sunny and sheltered outdoor position if you wish to do so.
Tree ferns and palms
Ferns and palms are ideal plants to grow in orangeries. The frond-like leaves are elegant and exotic, and most species will grow well without a lot of maintenance. Position away from direct bright sunlight and draughts, and water regularly but do not over saturate the soil.
Herbs
Herbs such as mint, rosemary, thyme, basil and coriander will generally thrive in a sunny position in your orangery. Water regularly, and you will be able to trim off the leaves to add to cooking for the freshest flavours as and when required.
Best plants for the outdoor garden area near to your orangery
Wisteria
If you have a fence or a garden structure near to your orangery, then wisteria is a beautiful climbing plant that you can use to soften it and add colour and interest to your garden. You can also train wisteria to climb around the exterior of your orangery to create a more integrated appearance between the garden and your house.
Wisteria produces abundant cascades of white and purple flowers in the late spring and summer. It prefers a south or west facing direction, and does well in moist but well drained soil.
Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas can be grown in large planters or directly in a soil bed, and prefer a partially shaded position with good drainage. They produce attractive blue or pink blooms throughout the summer, and require frequent watering in warmer weather.
Lavender
Lavender is a very easy plant to grow in pots or beds near to your orangery. It produces elegant violet coloured blooms in spring and summer, and has an attractive and soothing fragrance that you will catch on the breeze as you enjoy morning coffee on the patio.
So, there you have it: spring is the ideal time to refresh your greenery and ensure that you continue to enjoy and get the best out of your orangery for the new season. These plants will create visual interest and pleasant fragrances, and help to create a seamless connection between your home and garden.