A Gardeners Forum Forums General Discussion The Plants and Flowers Forum Temperate plants in the tropics

In the reverse of the normal course (growing tropical plants in the temperate zone) I am trying to grow temperate plants in the tropics and would be grateful for suggestions and advice. I know some genera will be impossible (e.g. Primulas), because the local temperatures inhibit germination anything over 15-20C (60-70F) when our local minimum is 25C (77F). I have had success with Cosmos and Gerbera, but tree lupins germinated and opened cotyledons, but then succumbed to insect predation coupled with heavy rain. I have thought of trying Aquilegia, Digitalis, Lupins, Penstemon, Rudbeckia and Salvia, and would be pleased to hear comments and suggestions.

I've grown digitalis from seed and although they didn't bloom the first year, which I found out is normal, they did fine. I don't think the seeds need cold treatment and since the plant likes moist soil, it might be good for your region.