However, for those lucky enough to live on the coast, there are a few problems that face the gardener. Strong, often salty winds are probably the main problem facing the coastal gardener. But with the right wind protection and some well-chosen plants, coastal gardens have a magic of their own. Here is a brief guide to seaside gardening and some plants that will positively thrive in a coastal setting.
To successfully garden in exposed areas, a strong windbreak against coastal winds is essential, which will widen the variety of plants you can choose to grow. The best form of protection against the wind is in the form of trees or bushes that will help filter the wind and lessen its impact. Alternatively, you can use polypropylene straps, but this will not look as natural. It is not recommended to use a solid structure such as a fence, as this can cause turbulence and other problems.
Tolerant coastal plants
For larger sites and real impact, try Pinus nigra or the European Black Pine. This is an impressive evergreen tree that can grow up to 30m tall and will tolerate full wind exposure. Another tree that will tolerate coastal winds is the popular white or Populus alba. Its leaves turn a beautiful shade of yellow in autumn and it will grow to about 30m tall. The rowan or Sorbus aucuparia, with its lovely red autumn berries, is a pretty specimen, but will need to be planted a bit away from the threat of coastal winds. It will grow to a height of 15 m.
There are a number of shrubs that will tolerate strong salty winds, but perhaps my favorite is Rosa rugosa. This hardy deciduous bush rose makes an excellent hedge and has lovely crimson pink or white flowers in summer followed by large orange hips. Another shrub for the coastal garden is Ceanothus with its cover of blue flowers in late summer. This shrub will not withstand the full impact of a coastal wind, so set it back slightly to protect it. Perennials that are perfect for a coastal garden include Eryngium or sea holly, which comes in various shades of blue and looks perfect, especially when planted on pebbles. Stachys byzantina or lamb’s ears is another ideal perennial for a seaside garden. It is evergreen with white shaggy foliage and small pink flowers in summer. Lavender also grows well in coastal gardens. Try ‘Hidcote’, which is a more compact variety with grey-green foliage and fragrant blue flowers in summer.
In a coastal garden, why not improvise with planters and use containers suitable for the environment, such as old lobster pots. Decorate empty spaces with bits of driftwood you find on the beach and large decorative pebbles.