QUESTION
My wife and I have moved into a new home and are thinking of what we could
do with the back garden. Currently we are thinking of a "beach garden",
with sand, and rocks along with suitable plants/shrubs. Is it realistically
possible and what type of sand would be suitable. Any advice would be appreciated.
ANSWER
Thank you for your enquiry about beach gardens. Beach gardens can look very
effective when using appropriate plants and materials.
Examples of suitable plants
Grasses
Carex oshimensis ‘Evergold’
Carex comans ‘Bronzeform’
Miscanthus sinensis ‘Zebrinus’
Phormium ‘Sundowner’
Succulents
Agarve
Perennials
Eryngium planum (Sea Holly)
Shrubs
Ulex europaeus (Gorse)
Ulex gallii (Dwarf Gorse)
Alpines
Most alpine plants are suitable for a beach garden.
Beach pebbles/paddles (large flat stones) slate and driftwood will add to
the overall effect. Also have you thought of perhaps building replica ‘groynes’ (wooden
sea breaks) as they can also look very effective. Any sand should be suitable
for your garden, however if you have small children play sand is advisable.
For further information and photographs of beach garden designs go to Derek
Jarman on www.heffalump.co.uk/derek2.htm