A tropical entrance, Highbury

The brief was to screen the decked terrace from other buildings through forestry-looking planting. Gaps in the winter borders had to be avoided at all cost and the garden had to be pretty much maintenance free.

Looking at pictures of plants selected by the client revealed a clear taste for tropical looking plants. This, and the fact red is the clients favourite colour, set the tone for a warm colour scheme of red, orange and yellow.

A selection of mostly evergreen plants with contrasting foliage and shape ensure the borders have year-round presence, while a few perennials add seasonal interest. Planting some of the plants as specimen ensured the garden looked mature pretty much as soon as planted. Finally an irrigation system ensures the plants remain well watered during hot spells.