The Palm Company’s “paradise” expert, Doug Coomes, has created tropical garden spaces of all sizes — from the Las Vegas Mirage Atrium to palatial estates to intimate “pocket paradises” in the city or at the beach. Here are his tips for creating a personal tropical paradise in your own backyard.
Start with a palm canopy, lush greens and vibrant colors as your main attraction — select exotic, eye-catching plants and flowers of varying heights and textures. Ferns and palms convey that memorable “tropical resort” look and feel. Add a collection of brilliant flowers and your tropical paradise bursts into spectacular life. Doug’s hint: “Don't overdo a particular area or selection of plants. Make it look natural and as if it has been in place for years.
Keep watering costs to a minimum — palms, succulents and bromeliads are drought-tolerant. Couple them with low-emission sprinklers and drip irrigation for lower water bills.
Add water features — ponds, pools and cascading waterfalls bring a soothing ambience to your own little piece of paradise.
Create a tropical room — don't just “look” at paradise, “live” in it. Furniture is essential in every tropical paradise. Add a hammock or daybed beneath swaying palms and place native wood chairs and tables where they can be enjoyed daily.
Install lighting — get the feel of a romantic resort’s tropical garden under a golden South Seas moon. A custom-designed system shows off your tropical dream in its best light while providing security.
Accessorize to complete your tropical “picture” — tropical carvings, stone statuary and distinctive pottery give your new garden style that finishing touch.
