Why Beach Gardens are so Special

Coastal areas are unique environments which vary considerably from areas inland (even a few hundred metres can make a difference). Wind, high salt loading and milder temperatures mean that many traditional plants we love will struggle to grow. Too often, I see coastal gardens laid out in a traditional manner, trying to ignore their proximity to the sea. This is a shame, and a wasted opportunity to be really creative. It also means that a lot of other plants will grow - and thrive.

Are all beach gardens 'Mediterranean'?

Around the world, there are a huge range of plants which have adapted to a coastal environment. Some of these are halophytes – plants adapted to saline conditions – but not all. When we think coastal we often (in the UK) think of the Mediterranean, which is a climatic zone type, not just a physical location. There are in fact five Mediterranean climate zones around the world, most of which occupy the Western coasts of continents, between 30° and 45° North or South of the equator. Of course, outside of these regions are many coastal areas which have plants adapted to a marine environment, so we are not limited to just these zones. The UK does not fall into this zone but our maritime location gives us some advantages, especially to the South and Western coasts. Climate change may move us closer, though with heavier rainfall patterns.

Map Of Koppen Climate Classification for the five major Mediterranean climate zones

The UK has its own ecology and there is much to draw on here; from a garden design perspective, native coastal plants can be used in conjunction with many Mediterranean plants. This is great from an aesthetic point of view, but also useful from the standpoint of creating resilient and adaptive planting from a climate change perspective.

Vegetated shingle beaches give us a range of tough yet beautiful plants to work with. Garden escapes may also mix happily here.

What Plants Work in the UK?

There may be some ecological benefit in working mostly with plants from the Mediterranean basin area, as these plants and insects are more likely to make an unaided migration here to the UK as a result of climate change, than those from more distance places. I do tend to mix it up a bit though. Mostly, I work with the idea of forming adaptive ecologies, where plants work well together and are likely to adapt to increasing turmoil in our weather and with increased temperatures. To this end, I focus on a framework mix of shrubs, with perennials and sub-shrubs which can seed around. Gardens can then build their own dynamic ecology over time.

Beach garden with extreme exposure – South coast, UK. The foreground wall used to be the sea wall, with fishing boats tied up. The shingle is a result of longshore drift.

Physical structure plays an important role in defining the garden and creating microclimates. There is, however, a fine balance between a solid fence or wall, and the desire for a view. With side boundaries you may have to have a solid boundary but where fronting the sea it is another matter.

Structure in this beach garden is provided by a pergola made from reclaimed breakwater timbers and galvanised security fencing

No amount of structure will eliminate the exposure to wind and salt, nor should it as a large part of the appeal in a beach garden is the connection to the elements and the view. On sunny days, this may be where the clients will want to sit. Creating microclimates, whilst key to providing shelter, can create a visual barrier too. Often, strategically placed groups of plants can filter the wind, yet retain some views through. A more private and sheltered spot is also desirable as an alternative place to sit.

Zoning the garden is good design practice anyway as this gives a holistic overview of the multiple uses and factors which come into play. Design should arise from such zoning and planting design must follow the same rules. Layering plants by exposure, height, form and colour are just some aspects; to this we must add – indeed prioritise – climatic exposure.

A garden beach front zone, planting behind the chestnut fencing layers up with more intensity and variety. Out front, low natives dominate.

The downside of a beach garden can be the winters; not so much the dramatic stuff, but the dull relentless grey that at least the UK is so good at providing. Good winter structure, form and colour is vital to counter this. I have stood in some of my beach gardens in the depths of winter and still felt uplifted by the plants surrounding me.

That is, of course, the essence of any garden.

Below are a couple of current concepts for beach or coastal garden.

A coastal garden, 200m from the sea, yet with some shelter and microclimate.

This banked planting will be on a sand/rubble substrate to echo local sand dune ecologies.

Beach and coastal gardens offer unique conditions and can become extraordinarily beautiful places in which to relax and enjoy connection to the elements and nature. They may well bear the brunt of our changing climate, yet they are unique and worth getting right.

For more info, please visit my website: https://www.marklaurence.com/