Climate resilient plants for tomorrow’s gardens

As our weather patterns become increasingly unpredictable, gardeners are looking for plants that can do more than simply provide seasonal colour, and it’s up to us, and the garden centres that stock our ranges to provide this.

Drought tolerance, support for pollinators, resilience in poor soils and reduced maintenance requirements are all becoming key factors when selecting plants.

‘Climate Champions’

Fortunately, many varieties in our 2027 Retailers’ Catalogue are perfectly suited to these challenges and have been identified as ‘Climate Champions’ by our team of horticultural experts.

Climate resilient plants play an important role in supporting biodiversity, improving air quality, regulating temperature and helping gardens cope with both dry spells and heavy rainfall.

By choosing carefully, gardeners can create attractive outdoor spaces that are better equipped for future environmental challenges.

The standouts

One of the standouts Agapanthus, whose nectar-rich flowers attract bees and butterflies throughout summer.

Varieties such as Agapanthus ‘Ever White’, ‘Fireworks’, ‘Cloud Burst’, ‘Poppin Purple’, ‘Poppin Star’ and ‘Snow Crystal’ are not only beautiful but also thrive in poor soils and dry conditions once established.

Pollinators

For evergreen structure and wildlife value, Ceanothus is hard to beat. Its masses of blue flowers provide an important food source for pollinators in spring and early summer, while its dense foliage offers shelter and nesting opportunities for birds.

Lavender remains one of the best all-round climate-friendly plants. As well as providing a rich source of pollen and nectar, it helps deter garden pests naturally and performs exceptionally well in dry soils. Varieties including Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’, ‘Munstead’ and ‘Vera ‘continue to be favourites with gardeners and wildlife alike.

Little water

Similarly, Nepeta faassenii ‘Kit Kat’ and ‘Purrsian Blue’ deliver long-lasting colour while requiring very little water after establishment. Their aromatic foliage naturally discourages pests, reducing the need for chemical interventions.

For sunny borders, Perovskia ‘Prime Time’ and several of our Salvia varieties offer exceptional resilience. These plants flower over a long period, attract large numbers of pollinators and thrive in poor, free-draining soils with minimal maintenance

Architectural

Meanwhile, architectural Phormium varieties provide year-round interest while tolerating drought and urban conditions. Their ability to grow successfully in containers also makes them ideal for smaller gardens, courtyards and terraces.

By incorporating climate resilient plants into planting schemes, gardeners can create landscapes that are not only beautiful but better able to withstand future environmental pressures while supporting wildlife and reducing resource use.

Garden centres – get our 2027 Retailers’ Catalogue

If you would like to see what else is in our new 2027 Retailers’ Catalogue, please click here to download a copy.

How to order plants

Please get in touch with our Garden Centre Sales Team if you would like to order some plants for your garden centre plant area.