Most people believe that it would be impossible to have a garden near the beach front, mostly because of its surroundings and the fact that the plants would be exposed to the sea breeze and too much salt. However, there are actually tons of seaside front garden ideas that you can implement for your garden. After all, living close to the beach actually offers a great (and also unique) opportunity to make a garden that can complement the coastline’s natural beauty. Your beachfront garden should be your peaceful spot. You can unwind and relax while enjoying the sound and sight of the ocean.
Go with Coastal Friendly Plants
When you want to plan out a garden near the beach front, it’s important to think about the plants. Go with varieties that can withstand the harsh conditions of the coastal environment. Look for plants that are tolerant of salt spray, strong winds, and sandy soil. Coastal-friendly plants often have adaptations like waxy or hairy leaves that help them retain moisture and withstand salt exposure. Some examples of coastal plants include beach grasses, dune wildflowers, succulents, and native shrubs like sea oats and beach rosemary.
Don’t Forget about Privacy Screens and Windbreaks
Coastal areas are often exposed to strong winds, so it's essential to create windbreaks and privacy screens to protect your garden and create a more sheltered environment. Planting hedges or rows of tall, dense shrubs can help block the wind and create a sense of privacy. You can also use trellises or pergolas to support climbing plants like jasmine or bougainvillea, which can act as natural windbreaks while adding beauty and fragrance to your garden.
Low Maintenance Plants Are a Must
You want to go with low-maintenance plants that can thrive in sandy soil and tolerate salt exposure. Look for drought-tolerant plants that require minimal watering once established, as coastal areas often receive less rainfall than inland regions. Native plants are an excellent choice for beachfront gardens, as they are well-adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. Also think about plants that are resistant to pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and fertilizers.
Plan out the Drainage
Proper drainage is essential in a beachfront garden, as sandy soil tends to drain quickly and may not retain moisture well. To improve drainage, amend the soil with organic matter like compost or peat moss to help retain moisture and add nutrients. Consider installing raised beds or mounding the soil to improve drainage and prevent waterlogging. You can also use gravel or crushed stone as mulch around your plants to help improve drainage and reduce erosion.
Protect the Plants (from Salt Spray)
Salt spray from the ocean can damage plants and cause leaf burn, so it's essential to take steps to protect your garden from salt exposure. Planting windbreaks, hedges, or other barrier plants can help shield your garden from salt spray and create a more sheltered environment for your plants. Additionally, you can rinse your plants with fresh water periodically to remove salt buildup from their leaves and stems.
When you are able to do these, rest assured that your garden near beachfront won’t only beautiful, but also resilient and solid.