A well-designed coastal garden can make a beach house feel like a serene retreat while adding lasting value to the property. Whether you’re selling or just enhancing your beachside home, a coastal garden should reflect the beauty and wildness of the coast, embracing natural materials, soft hues, and organic flow. Here are 10 essential tips for creating a coastal garden that leaves an impression:
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Go with Natural Curves
Incorporate flowing lines and gentle curves rather than straight paths to create an inviting, organic feel that complements the coastline. -
Embrace a Wild Aesthetic
Coastal gardens shouldn’t be over-manicured. Let them have a wild, wind-swept look to reflect their natural surroundings. -
Create Open Spaces for Relaxation
Plan open spaces for entertaining or simply relaxing, with small nooks or benches for added charm. -
Use Natural Materials
Sandstone, weathered wood, and reclaimed timbers make great seating, steps, and retaining walls, adding rustic beauty to the garden. -
Improve Sandy Soil
Coastal soils are often nutrient-poor, so add layers of mulch and organic material to boost soil quality and retain moisture. -
Choose Resilient Plants
Drought-resistant, salt-tolerant plants like succulents, coastal grasses, and hardy shrubs thrive in coastal conditions. Coastal banksia and eucalypts can provide shelter for more delicate plants. -
Incorporate Native Plants
Natives like coastal rosemary, woolly bush, and correa alba are ideal for hedges. Pair with succulents like blue chalk sticks or grasses like fountain grass and New Zealand flax. -
Plant in Clumps
Planting one species in large clusters creates a striking visual impact and adds texture and rhythm to the garden. -
Add Gravel, Pebbles, and Mulch
These natural materials enhance the beachy feel and keep maintenance low by suppressing weeds. -
Let the Garden Age Gracefully
Coastal gardens age beautifully, developing character and charm over time. Embrace the natural wear that adds to its appeal.
Whether you’re crafting a peaceful retreat or preparing your property for sale, a coastal garden can become a valuable asset that enhances both beauty and value.
