Understanding Microclimates

 

Key to a successful garden design is the understanding of the various aspects of your yard, backyard or garden. One of the most important things to understand is the microclimate. Once you understand the various microclimates in your garden you can decide which plants to grow in each specific area.

The Microclimate

Imagine your yard as a much larger space and within the confines are various different climates which change according to various external factors such as the direction of the sun, amount of shade, levels or rainfall and the likes. This is exactly what a microclimate is, a small area of your garden which has a different climate to another area.

In the diagram above I have highlighted four areas which would, typically, have a unique microclimate. I have marked each area as A, B, C & D for easy reference. I have drawn the image with the morning sun rising from the top right with a compost bin at the very bottom of the garden in a shaded area well away from the house.

Area A

One of the most pronounced aspects of this garden is the large tree just outside the boundary fence. Around the base of the tree, in area A the ground will be in a great deal of shade but the channel between the house and fence will also act rather like a wind tunnel. The result is that the microclimate of area A is rather harsh and only a few species of plants would grow in such a space.

Area B

Just along the fence from area A is area B which has a microclimate which will have slightly less wind and shade however the fence will cast a shadow while also protecting plants in that area from wind coming from that direction. This area will also be sheltered, by the fence, from rain and, therefore, the soil may be drier than elsewhere in the garden.

Area C

Area C is a sheltered spot which will get most sun in the evenings. Being close to the wall of the house the ground will be extremely dry and very shaded in the mornings. Being directly below windows this spot could benefit by the planting of night scented stock.

Area D

This small patch of ground is extremely well sheltered and in shade for much of the day. However, in the afternoons and evenings the microclimate changes radically and it can quickly become a heat trap which will further dry out the already dry soil. This would be a great spot to plant more delicate flowers but it is important to ensure an adequate water supply.

Before you set about designing your garden examine it very closely to identify specific microclimates. Of course a microclimate can be changed, such as the removal of the tree in area A. Once you understand the general climate and the various microclimates of your yard, backyard or garden, you can begin to choose which plants would be suitable for each specific area. Knowing this will help you to put together a general design but also make your gardening far easier with less failures.

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