Mediterranean climates, world-wide, are characterized by cool, wet
winters and summer drought. Temperatures may vary considerably,
some areas have hard frosts in winters, others barely any frost at
all; in some, summers are unbearably hot and dry, others mild and
foggy. Plants native to these areas are genetically programmed to
withstand these specific conditions. One common form of adaptation
is a summer dormancy period as that is the most difficult season to
survive (as opposed to a freezing winter). This range of conditions
in otherwise similar climates creates a variety of plant adaptations
which are particularly useful to gardeners, especially in areas of
numerous microclimates.
The major Mediterranean climates of the world are, of course, the
area surrounding the Sea of the same name, the South African Cape,
Southern and Western Australia, Central Chile, and much of
California. There are other areas 'allied' with these climates as
well. Gardeners in these areas enjoy a diversity of native plants
(the South African Cape endemic flora is the most diverse in the
world), as well as the beautiful and interesting plants of other
similar climates which sometimes become naturalized ("No, Eucalyptus
is not native to California"). There is so much to be learned about
appropriate horticulture in these regions. Working with the natural
forces that shape our unique regions, we can create astonishing
beauty as well as minimal maintenance through climate appropriate
plantings.
190 Seeds of Trees and Shrubs For Mediterranean Climates (webpage price-list)
Natives, and introduced species - Catalogues by Geographical regions.
Economic, Ethnobotanic and Useful Plants, including appropriate plants for various conditions.
The Mediterranean Plants Discussion Group
To subscribe to the Mediterranean Plants Discussion Group visit Seán A. O'Hara's gardening in mediterranean climates worldwide website.
While there is an ever expanding variety of horticultural resources
on the Internet, most of these are completely general in their
focus, or specific to a special interest or climate without stating
those assumptions. There is much to be gained in the experiences of
fellow gardeners in all climates, but often you yearn to 'talk'
with someone who directly understands your unique horticultural
challenges and successes.
This discussion group was established to fill that need for gardeners
in the 5 mediterranean climate zones throughout the world, regardless
of their specific interests. It has also attracted attention from
gardeners in related climates as well as those in other areas who
have a special interest in plants from mediterranean regions.
Worldwide, there is recent focus on the problem of global warming.
This phenomenon can create a Mediterranean-like effect in parts of
the world formerly not classified as having a mediterranean climate.
Lessons learned and disseminated from experiences in mediterranean
climate regions may be of special value in the future.
There is so much yet to be learned about appropriate horticulture in
mediterranean climates. Working with the natural forces that shape our
unique regions, we can create real beauty with minimal maintenance
through climate appropriate plantings and techniques.
This discussion group was created to foster these ideas and promote
the dissemination of information from gardener to gardener. Many of
us are struggling with similar problems and can benefit from solutions
dreamt up halfway around the globe. Join us in expanding our unique
horticulture and appreciation of plants mediterranean.
Self-catering holidays in the South of France.
