From Tuscan Landsapes: A British Guide to Mediterranean Style Gardens

The sun-drenched hills of Tuscany might feel a world away from British shores, but creating that coveted Mediterranean charm in your own garden is entirely achievable. At Caragh Nurseries, we’re excited to bring a touch of Italian magic to your outdoor space with our carefully curated collection of Mediterranean plants and expert design knowledge.  Last week I was lucky enough to head to one of my favourite places in the world with my landscape designer friend, Leonie to look at trees and plants and inspiration for a show garden that we are working on.  It was a beautiful escape, some work but also the opportunity to feel the sun on your back, it was 25 degrees and in March that was very welcome.

We indulged in great food, simple but fresh and wonderfully put together, some amazing olive oil that is produced at the villa that we stayed in and the odd glass of chianti.  More importantly we enjoyed good company and the chance to kick back and enjoy the Tuscan landscape.  What I did find was some amazing plants and trees, really beautiful specimens that I have secured ready to bring to you, these are all arriving into the UK over the next two weeks.

This, alongside the new show garden we are creating all got me thinking about how we build the perfect British Mediterranean garden, so here is my guide,

Creating Your Personal Tuscan Haven
The secret to a successful Mediterranean garden isn’t just about the plants – it’s about creating an atmosphere. Here’s how to achieve that perfect balance:

Architectural Stars

Olive Trees: These ancient symbols of Mediterranean life bring instant character to any space
Italian Cypress: Creating those distinctive vertical lines that define the Tuscan landscape
Evergreen Magnolia: Offering year-round structure with glossy leaves and fragrant flowers                                                                                                                                                          Fig Trees: those wonderful foliage leaves and the perfect fruit.                                                                                                                                                                                                        Perfect Pine trees: Full of character and scent in a beautiful evergreen form                                                                                                                                                                          Multistemmed trees: varieties like Osmanthus, Camellia, Cornus and many more

The Supporting Cast

Lavender: Providing both colour and that essential Mediterranean fragrance
Salvia: Adding bursts of purple that thrive in both sun and partial shade                                                                                                                                                                                  Rosemary and other herbs for scent, cooking and medicinal purposes.
Terracotta & Atlantis Pots: Our authentic collection adds that crucial Mediterranean finishing touch

Design Tips for British Success

Work with your climate: Choose sheltered spots for Mediterranean plants
Create sun traps: Use height in plants or structures to maximum effect
Improve drainage: Mediterranean plants thrive in well-drained soil or even better use gravel and plant within
Layer your planting: Combine different heights and textures
Add gravel: Essential for both drainage and that Mediterranean feel.

Use soft natural stone with a brightness that bounces light and a colour scheme that reflects this,  using warm but neutral tones,  creams, warm browns and light terracotta notes.

Expert Service
Our  team specialises in bringing Mediterranean dreams to life in British gardens. From design ideas to plant sourcing, we’ll help you create a space that feels like a holiday at home.

Practical Care Tips

Position plants in full sun where possible
Add grit to improve drainage
Protect tender plants in winter
Group plants with similar water needs
Ready to Start?
Browse our Mediterranean collection online to begin your garden transformation. All our plants come with care instructions and our expert team is always here to help.

Don’t forget our free Delivery Option which will be coming to an end soon, so do make the most of it while you can.