Gardening on the Coast

Here are some helpful lists based on the questions customers have asked about gardening by the sea over the last 10 years. Newcomers to coastal gardening can spend a lot of money on plants and be disappointed with the results if they ignore the effects of salt and wind. Shelter from salt and wind are essential in the establishment of a garden. Artificial screening will filter the wind. This will help prevent scorching and blackening of leaf edges and give protection until a living shelter belt has matured. Gardens right on the coast also get sand blasted.

Many people complain that coastal plants (and gardens) are dull. Have a look at neighbouring gardens and see what grows well or badly. Note how much protection the plants require to look good. The mild coastal climate favours lots of exotic and interesting plants. many of which would be too tender to survive inland. In Cornwall there is a world of difference between conditions on the wild north coast and the comparatively tame south. The crucial difference between a few wind blasted trees or shrubs and a beautiful garden is shelter from the worst of the weather.

Give new plants a good start in life; prepare soil well. water them until established, hose them down if gales cover them in salt. Always remember that small plants will establish better than large ones.

For a list of plants for specific conditions, select an item from the jump menu below.

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