Microclimates of Northern Ireland

When we think of Northern Ireland, we tend to think of a place that is cool and wet year-round. Indeed, the highest ever recorded temperature there is just 88°! This is not a place one would expect to find tropical plants growing year-round.

When Ross and I were in Ireland this past February, the weather was predictably cool and damp. Then we found ourselves driving under sunny skies along a lake as we made our way to Mount Stewart, a historical house and garden we were scouting for next year’s tour to Ireland.

In addition to the delightful weather, we were happily surprised to see so much in bloom in the garden, even in February. We were of course curious to learn how we had stumbled across such a seemingly tropical place on an otherwise damp island.

Mount Stewart enjoys a unique microclimate that is a result of highly localized geographical features combined with man-made additions. The estate is located along the shore of Strangford Lough, a large lake south of Belfast (see map ).

In the early 19th century, a woodland was planted on the shore-side of the gardens to act as a protective belt, sheltering tender plants from colder sea winds. This “sea plantation,” as it is called, is a buffer against severe weather and reduces wind speeds, preventing sea spray from depositing sea salt on the house and garden.

Today, Mount Stewart’s garden is one of our absolute favorites:

You can see banana trees and hibiscus, Mediterranean and exotic plants, as well as a spectacular collection of rhododendron. Wander amongst the parterres of the Italian Garden, full of exotics from tropical bananas, rhododendrons and hibiscus to scented roses, delphiniums, foxgloves and alliums. In the Sunk Garden stroll amongst vibrant azalea hedging and deep blue lupins, as well as wisteria trailing under the pergola.