Learn About Gardening with Tropical Plants

Tropical gardens can vary from dry and desert-like, to coastal, to dense, lush and leafy environs resembling the dynamic workings of a rainforest. Many different garden effects are possible using tropical plants.

Certain plants that originate in tropical or sub-tropical climates can sometimes be grown successfully out of doors in a cooler climate – particularly if provided with some protection (e.g. under the canopy of a large tree or beside a wall to protect from wind and/or frost). With the right conditions (i.e. light, ventilation, temperature, humidity etc) any tropical plant can be grown in a greenhouse, or as an indoor plant, no matter where you live.

This course aims to provide a sound introduction to gardening with tropical plants, in greenhouses, protected garden spaces, indoors or in warmer climates. It provides a good first step for anyone new to horticultural study, whether amateur gardeners, volunteers or aspiring professionals.

NOTE – This course is based on our “Tropical Plants” course – adapted to be more suitable for entry level students.

There are 10 lessons in this course:

• Introducing Tropical Plants
• Plant Cultural Practices
• Tropical Annuals, Perennials, Bulbous Plants, Bamboos and Lawns
• Ornamental Gingers and Heliconias (and Related Plants Including Alpinia, Hedychium, Zingiber, Musa and Costus)
• Palms and Palm Like Plants
• Shrubs, Trees and Climbers
• Orchids, Ferns and Bromeliads
• Tropical Herbs, Vegetables and Fruit
• Growing Tropical Plants Outside of the Tropics

Each lesson culminates in an assignment which is submitted to the school, marked by the school’s tutors and returned to you with any relevant suggestions, comments, and if necessary, extra reading.

Aims

• Explain the nature and scope of tropical plants.
• Discuss cultural characteristics that are often peculiar to tropical plants.
• Describe the taxonomy and culture of a range of soft wooded tropical plants including annuals, perennials and bulbs.
• Describe the taxonomy and culture of Heliconias and gingers.
• Describe the taxonomy and culture of palms and palm-like tropical plants.
• Describe the taxonomy and culture of climber, tree and shrub tropical plants.
• Describe the taxonomy and culture of orchids, ferns and bromeliads.
• Describe the taxonomy and culture of herbs, vegetables and fruits in tropical conditions.
• Determine ways to grow tropical plants outside of the tropics.
• Explain the use of tropical plants in landscaping.

WHAT DOES THE TERM ‘TROPICAL PLANT’ MEAN?

Some people would think a tropical plant is a plant that comes from the tropics. Others might consider tropical plants to also include plants from sub-tropical places.

Gardeners in some parts of the world would also consider any plant that has a tropical appearance, to be a tropical plant.
Cordylines for instance, are often called ‘tropical plants’, even though many of the common cultivars have at least partially originated in New Zealand, which does not fall within the tropics.

This course is concentrating on plants which originate from tropical or sub-tropical climates; but there may be some plants covered which fit a looser definition of ‘tropical’.

A Statement of Attainment in Tropical Plants offers substantial benefits to a diverse range of individuals and professionals. Here are some key groups who would gain from this qualification:

Horticulturists and Botanists

• Skill Enhancement: Professionals in horticulture and botany can deepen their knowledge of tropical plant species, their growth requirements, and management practices.
• Career Advancement: Specialized knowledge in tropical plants can open up new career opportunities and advancements within the field.

Landscape Designers and Gardeners

• Project Expansion: This qualification enables landscape designers to broaden their project scope by incorporating tropical plants into their designs.
• Client Satisfaction: Knowledge of tropical plants allows gardeners to provide more comprehensive services, enhancing client satisfaction.

Environmental Scientists and Conservationists

• Ecosystem Understanding: A deep understanding of tropical plants is crucial for environmental scientists working on biodiversity conservation and ecosystem restoration projects.
• Research Opportunities: Conservationists can use this knowledge to conduct research and develop strategies for protecting tropical plant species.

Agricultural Professionals

• Crop Diversification: Farmers and agricultural professionals can benefit by exploring tropical plants as potential new crops, diversifying their production and potentially increasing revenue.
• Sustainable Practices: Understanding the unique needs of tropical plants can lead to more sustainable agricultural practices.

Educators and Students

• Curriculum Development: Educators can incorporate specialized knowledge into their curricula, enriching the learning experience for students.
• Academic Growth: Students pursuing studies in botany, horticulture, or environmental science will find this qualification valuable for academic and research purposes.

Home Garden Enthusiasts

• Personal Enrichment: Hobbyists and home gardeners with an interest in tropical plants can gain practical knowledge to enhance their personal gardening projects.
• Community Involvement: This can also lead to greater involvement in local gardening communities and clubs, fostering a sense of community and shared learning.

Tourism and Hospitality Industry

• Attraction Enhancement: Resorts, botanical gardens, and other tourism-related businesses can improve their appeal by incorporating well-maintained tropical plant gardens, creating a unique visitor experience.
• Educational Programs: Hospitality professionals can develop educational programs for tourists interested in tropical flora, adding value to their services.

A Statement of Attainment in Tropical Plants is a versatile qualification that offers practical and professional benefits across multiple sectors, enhancing expertise, career prospects, and personal fulfillment.