Gardening along the coast presents unique challenges. Wind, salt spray, dry sandy soils as well as actual sea water makes it difficult to grow traditional garden plants. Few plants can survive when exposed to the open ocean. Therefore, proper site preparation and careful plant selection are critical.
Planting windbreaks (preferably with plants native to the coast) is a good first step towards creating garden spaces along the coast. In Southern New England for instance, Rosa rugoas, bayberry and eastern red cedar have proven their ability to survive the harshest of seaside conditions. Find out what grows naturally in along the coast in your area and use those plants to create a protected garden space. Ideally, windbreaks have a few layers. Lower growing shrubs such as the above mentioned bayberry and rosa rugosa can provide the first line of defense against salt spray and high winds. Rows of taller evergreens, such as eastern red cedar, will dampen the winds even further. Though the goal is to provide protection and create a retreat and from the harsh seaside winds, design a planting plan which still allows for beautiful views.
Along with wind and salt, dry sandy soils can also be an issue. Sandy soils drain quickly and don’t hold much moisture. Adding compost, manure or peat moss will help the soil retain the moisture necessary for plants to survive.
When planting dig holes for trees and shrubs about twice the diameter of the root ball and just as deep. Place the plant in the hole and be sure that the top of the root ball meets the existing grade of the garden. Planting too high or too low will result in early plant decline. Begin backfilling the hole, at about half way fill the hole with water and let it settle. Finish backfilling the hole then create a saucer around the trunk of the plant, mulch well and water again.
With thoughtful planning, careful tree and shrub selection and proper planting technique, seaside gardens can thrive.
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