Nailing The Coastal Garden Look

Many of us daydream about living by the sea, but what if you could bring the beach home with you? Learning how to nail the coastal garden look can do just that.

Whether you live by a harbour, on the ocean, or simply wish you were, a well designed coastal garden can work wonders when it comes to creating a space that represents the same sense of zen. 

Typically speaking, a coastal garden by the beach often features sturdy and robust plants that can cope with higher than normal levels of salt exposure, windy conditions and sandy soils that don’t hold many nutrients or much water. However, if you’re living in the country, suburbs or even the city and want to emulate this same look, the good news is that creating a garden with the same vibe might just be easier than you once thought. 

How To Create A Coastal Garden 

While a well executed coastal garden often hints at a beach that’s not too far away, it should ultimately encourage you to kick your shoes off and settle in for a relaxing afternoon, especially in the warmer months. Somewhat organic and natural by design, coastal gardens usually work best when left slightly scruffy and agrestal looking, rather than neat and maintained – so how do you get started with making one?

Go Native – If you’re trying to reproduce the feeling of being by one of our nation’s magnificent white sandy beaches, then aim for native plants like banksias that are a staple in the real thing. They also provide a great option for hedges or screening, to provide privacy or space fillers. 

Include Rusting Materials – If you’re in the process of designing a coastal garden, look for materials that have texture, age and a natural patina. Avoid those that are too clean, stiff or all around perfect, as too much “order” makes the space feel like an inner city courtyard as opposed to a seaside oasis. 

Embrace Succulents – Drought tolerant and overall hardy plant varieties are popular in coastal gardens, as they act as a nod to their natural environment and growing conditions. While they’re usually low maintenance, they also look great when left to “go wild”, as a coastal garden shouldn’t be too manicured. 

It’s In The Lines – Getting your garden’s layout right is the first step to achieving the coastal style. The space should be made of gentle, organic curves which entice you to stroll through the garden. Try to combine open patches with intimate seating areas that enable you to explore and be immersed within the  garden. 

Pick Your Palette – Designing the colour palette of a coastal garden is much the same as what beach themed interiors are like – think natural. Soft browns, dusty blues, greys, and even pastel pinks are often found in plant foliage by the beach, and aren’t loud in the slightest. In turn, they work wonders for constructing an area that is both relaxing and soothing. 

While not all of us have the luxury of living by the beach, we do have the option to bring the beach to us. If you’re able to successfully pull off a well designed coastal garden in your own home or backyard, don’t be surprised if you’re the one suddenly hosting all of the BBQ’s come summertime. 

Further Gardening Advice From The Professionals

Spending time outside and in the garden is not only good for our overall well being, but it’s also an easy way to start educating yourself on the importance of sustainability. 

If you’re noticing foreign invaders popping up in your garden or yard, a natural weed killer like Bioweed is a safe way to keep them under control. As a non-residual solution, it will break down into the soil in as little as 72 hours and can combat over 200 invasive weed species, making it safe for you, your family and your pets to navigate. 

Bioweed is the brainchild of well established agricultural leaders Greenpro, and is backed by over twenty years of research and development. Owned and manufactured in Australia, the primary ingredient of Bioweed is actually sustainably sourced pine oil, and is even approved by NASAA, ACO and APVMA for use around organic farms and food production.

If you’re on the hunt for a natural weed killer, more organic gardening solutions, or simply want to know more about eliminating weeds safely, check out other tips and tricks in our online advice forum, or contact us for any further queries.