A garden by the sea can be magical. Or windswept, bare and failing to realise its potential. Personally, I’d go for the former if I had one – and lots of people do – we seem to be drawn to towards the coast like a magnet, to live, to holiday, or just to spend a day near the water.
Coastal gardens bring challenges and here in the west of Ireland the main one is wind – but that doesn’t need to stop you making the very most of the space you have. Careful planning is the key to making sure both humans and plants can be comfortable. You’ll probably need some kind of shelter so that you can sit outside comfortably, and what you choose and where you put it depends very much on the needs of your own particular space. Glass panels are increasingly popular where a view of the sea needs to be retained while making it sheltered enough to sit there and actually appreciate the view. Lots of other solutions can work too though – semi-permeable panels which can be made from all sorts of materials can add shelter while letting the wind filter through minus its force.
Furniture needs careful consideration – either keep it light so you can easily move it out of harm’s way in stormy weather, or consider heavy timber, stone or polished concrete options that won’t budge when the wind gets wild.
Planting can be very simple or as elaborate as you like, as long as you choose plants that don’t mind exposure and salty winds – but it’s a shame to leave it out altogether, as there are tons of plants that positively thrive in coastal conditions, and the right blend of perennials, shrubs and grasses are what really bring in the magic. Coastal gardens usually have lots of light and good drainage, so plants that naturally do well in these conditions should be top of the list.
ANNE’S TIP OF THE WEEK: Plants with tough leaves tend to do well by the sea, especially long, strappy leaves like Agapanthus and Crocosmia. Shrubs such as Hydrangea, Hebe and Rugosa roses are usually very happy too.
Anne Byrne Garden Design provides easy to follow Garden Plans that you can implement right away or in stages. Anne’s design flair and passion for plants brings a touch of magic to gardens of all sizes.
Anne Byrne Garden Design – Creative Ideas – Practical Solutions – Stunning Gardens
T: 086 683 8098 E: [email protected] www.annebyrnegardendesign.com
