The original conservatories were created to be verdant sanctuaries for both plants and their owners. There is no reason why your own conservatory can’t replicate that.
Conservatories of the 17th century were built specifically to protect exotic plants from cold British weather, particularly citrus trees. Attached to the main house, they were designed to provide the space and climate to cultivate foliage that wouldn’t survive outside.
During the Victorian era, they also became social spaces where hosts could put on a tea party spread and wax lyrical about the rarity of the plant species they grew there.
Today’s conservatories have much broader uses, as living spaces, offices, summer rooms and storage spaces. However, they are still perfect for creating a plant-rich indoor jungle for your home.
What are the benefits of having plants in your conservatory?
Research has shown that being around plants indoors can have positive psychological impacts. These include better moods, stress reduction, better concentration and tolerance for pain.
They’ve also been shown to have physical benefits, including reducing tiredness and headaches, and even lowering blood pressure. With so many health benefits, there are plenty of reasons to head down to your local garden centre.
What kind of plants can thrive in conservatories?
You could fill your conservatory with standard British houseplants, but why not add something a little more exotic to your indoor garden?
Look for species that do more than love sunlight and heat, but add visual interest and fragrance to the conservatory.
Mediterranean plants
Small citrus trees, such as lemons, limes and clementines, from the Mediterranean can survive much cooler night temperatures of down to five degrees Celsius, while coping admirably with unheated conservatories during the day.
Desert succulents
Flowering and spidery cacti, Aloe plants, Aeoniums and String of Pearls can add texture while being very easy to care for. They can handle high daytime temperatures and cold nights, but avoid overwatering.
Yuccas and Sago palms can provide height and visual interest while also being fairly resilient.
Tropical plants
To help these plants survive and thrive, the conservatory should be heated at no lower than 15 degrees Celsius all year round.
Passion flowers, Plumbago shrubs, Mandevilla and Bougainvillaea are all tropical species that can be used to fill a space with vibrant colour.
Plants with architectural shapes
Include plants that catch the eye, such as a bright and spikey Strelitzia or Heliconia. Or large fiddle-leafed fig trees and Monstera for big bold foliage.
Fragrant plants
Introduce a delight for the other senses, with fragrant plants that thrive in conservatories. Try Stephanotic floribunda, Jasmines or Gardenias for exotic perfumes.
How much space do you need for plants?
The answer to this question depends on how dense a jungle you want to create and the type of plants you want to keep. The truth is, you can have as few or as many plants as the space will contain.
In a standard British conservatory, you’ll likely be planting in pots or troughs on the conservatory’s floor rather than in soil beds, which will limit the space you have available.
Having a good flat plan laid out before beginning can help the project feel less haphazard and overwhelming.
Will you be using shelving for smaller plants? And will you include furniture in your design, so you can sit in peace to enjoy your green oasis?
Also worth considering is whether shrubs or potted trees are likely to outgrow the space. It’s best to decide on a plan of action before they smash through the roof or no longer fit through the doorway.
What should you consider before creating your personal botanical garden?
Assuming you have the time to care for and enjoy your new lush retreat, there are a few other aspects to consider before beginning your project.
Conservatory repairs
Before moving in all the heavy plant pots and troughs, it is best to make sure your conservatory is in full working order.
Any leaks or damage should be repaired by a professional in conservatory roof repair, or you may find excess humidity or temperature extremes killing off your plants.
Watering and humidity
Remembering to water your plants regularly and monitor the humidity of the conservatory is important for them to thrive. Being able to ventilate the space properly can also prevent dampness from accumulating.
Temperature and light levels
Many domestic houseplants are sensitive to fluctuations in temperature and/or bright sunlight. Choosing plants that can tolerate a greater range can make caring for them easier.
However, if there are particular plants you prefer, then finding ways to shade them on very hot days and regulate the conservatory temperature will help keep them alive and well.
The good news is that modern conservatory building materials are far better at thermal regulation, so the risk of wilting is much lower. You can, of course, heat the room and install blinds or thermal panels if needed.
If you’re green-thumbed or a complete garden novice, with the right knowledge and tools, you can create a flourishing botanical paradise in your conservatory.