Whether or not you’re an experienced gardener, creating an oceanfront garden can be a massive challenge. The excessive wind, sandy soil, and salty air are just a few factors that make it difficult for plants to thrive. While this sounds like bad news, you don’t have to let it discourage you from planting a beautiful seaside garden. Dive into a few key tips for a thriving beachfront garden to make your property stand out above the rest.
Choose Native Plants
One of the best ways to ensure your beach garden thrives is to use plants that belong there. If you’re unsure which plants are native to your area, consider asking around or walking up and down the beach to look for inspiration. You can take photos of plants you see and show them to your local nursery staff to ensure you get the best plants for your area.
Use Additives To Combat Sandy Soil
Sandy soil can be a huge issue for many plants, as they typically require moist, nutrient-rich soil. Unfortunately, beachfront property often lacks nutrients and doesn’t retain enough water to keep plants healthy. However, you can fix this by adding organic compost to your soil. Consider adding about three inches of compost to the soil before you begin the planting process.
Protect Your Plants From the Wind
Excessive wind can wreak havoc on plants, and beachfront properties tend to be windier than any other location. With that said, you may have to provide extra protection for your garden to ensure the plants grow properly. Depending on your personal preferences, you can use fencing, sturdy shrubs, or large rocks.
Use Heat- and Drought-Resistant Plants
Because tropical weather is often hot and sunny, your plants may not receive much rain. Therefore, drought-resistant plants are the best option for your seaside garden. Even if you provide supplemental shade and water, your plants may not survive the heat of the summer in a tropical climate. Alternatively, beach-native plants have a better chance of surviving despite the harsh conditions.
Planting a garden is just one of the many ways to maintain beachfront curb appeal, and you can do so successfully with these key tips for a thriving beachfront garden. Whether you’re an avid gardener or a beginner, you may need a little extra help figuring out the best possible way to maintain your plants.