I live near the beach and it’s pretty tough finding plants that can cope with it. I would love to know what hedges are best for gardens in coastal areas?
Aleisha
There are many plants that will withstand coastal conditions providing you give them the right care.
Of course the best option is something that has adapted to the coastal environment, and with many cultivated varieties of native plants available, it won’t be hard to find something aesthetically pleasing.
Westringia varieties are probably the most popular native alternative to box plants, and come in deep green to pale silver shades.
They can be trained into neat classical hedges, or, as many local councils are now doing, also look very modern pruned into organic, rounder shapes.
Both Leucophyta fiddlesticks and Olearia axillaris can be used for low hedges, and have beautiful silvery shades.
If you’re after a taller screening hedge, perhaps you could check out the cottonwood hibiscus or Tiliaceus rubra, native to the East and Northern coasts of Australia, which grows up to 8 metres but can be hedged to whatever height you want.
The dark foliage provides a striking backdrop for the plant’s beautiful pale yellow flowers.
While we’re on the topic of hibiscus, most varieties of non-native hibiscus also make excellent hedges in coastal areas.
Raphiolepsis varieties can offer an alternative non-native hedge option, with masses of small white or pink flowers in spring, and lush, waxy green foliage.
Pittosporum ‘screenmaster’ is a vigorous, tall hedge with silvery leaves and striking dark stems, and grows quickly to provide screening from neighbours or roads.
However, with non-native hedges in coastal areas you will need to add both soil improver (compost or manure) and garden-use clay, mixing thoroughly to a depth of about 50cm or more.
With all plants, even natives, you will need to hand-water deeply and frequently for the first couple of months, using a soil wetter to ensure the roots can establish in the water-repellent sandy coastal soil.
Lastly, if you’re creating a ‘layered’ effect with your hedges, consider using a variety of coloured foliage: it is quite striking when gardeners mix it up with leaves of dark, silver, and vibrant shades, so they stand out against each other.
Do you have a gardening question for Jess? Send your queries to jess.cockerill@fairfaxmedia.com.au
