Garden microclimate refers to the unique mini climate that each garden has. This page explains how you can alter the microclimate of a garden.
About garden microclimates
Every garden has its own unique microclimate that is subtly different from other gardens nearby or even next door. This microclimate is shaped by the absence or presence of things that influence temperatures in various parts of the garden. For more information on microclimates see: Garden Microclimates.
Altering a garden's microclimate
The microclimate of a garden can be altered by adding or removing various things in your garden.
What to add to increase microclimate temperatures
- CONCRETE AND GRAVEL PATHS
Warmer than grass. - THERMAL MASS
In the form of buildings and walls. - TREES
Evergreen trees to trap warmth under their leaves on cold nights and deciduous trees to allow in more winter sunlight. - PONDS
To release stored heat on cold winter nights to reduce the risk of frost. - WIND BREAKS
To reduce windchill. - RAISED BEDS
Warmer than vegetable beds on the ground.
What to add to reduce microclimate temperatures
- GRASS PATHS
Cooler than concrete or gravel paths. - LARGE TREES
To increase the amount of shade in summer. - PONDS
Have a cooling effect on hot days, warm winds blowing across a pond will be cooled due to evaporation. - WIND BREAKS
To reduce hot winds in summer.
microclimate adjustment limits
Of course there is a limit to how much you can alter a microclimate, no matter how many changes are made to a garden’s structure. But with care it is possible to alter the microclimate enough to allow marginal plants to grow where they otherwise would not have survived. In doing so you will also make your garden a more liveable and enjoyable space.
