A coastal garden on our Mornington Peninsula has to tolerate a variety of challenges such as salt spray, high winds and a soil that is hydrophobic (repels water) and is poor in nutrients. However, on the plus side, being coastal Mornington gardens are virtually frost-free.
Once we have targeted these problem areas we can move forward and select plants that not only survive but thrive in these conditions. A great source of plants is your local native nursery and it is always best if possible to purchase indigenous plants that have been raised locally using local seed provenance.
A coastal garden doesn’t have to be limited to a single genre such as crushed rock, natives and grasses. Most landscape design styles can be achieved by a sympathetic use of space, materials and right plant choice. We have found a detailed planting plan is an invaluable tool for ensuring against the costly mistake of ‘wrong plant, wrong place’.
As many Mornington Peninsula coastal properties fall into the category of holiday homes, it is important to bear this in mind when designing and constructing a coastal garden. Low garden maintenance will be a priority for a home that is not your main residence.
To be water-wise in your garden design, why not try
- A dry river bed.
- Drought resistant /tolerant plants.
- Local indigenous plants
- Recycling Grey water.
- Installing water tanks.
- Dripper hoses connected to a timer.
- Removal of lawn areas and replacing with crushed rock/mulch/drought tolerant plants.
