Beachy bliss in your own backyard

Gardens large and small can be transformed into a beachy oasis; all you need are the right plants, colours, tools and a bit of elbow grease.

Coastal plants

From waves in motion to swaying palm trees and shifting sands, the coast evokes calm and movement. To recreate this effect in your garden, choose plants that reflect the move and shift of the ocean every time the wind passes through them. Free-moving green plants suited to the Australian climate include: the Japanese sago palm, lime magik wattle, Alexandra palm and bird of paradise.

A tropical garden theme should also include splashes of colour and fragrance. Fragrant flowering plants such as frangipani, murraya, gardenia and ginger lily are easy to maintain and reward you with gorgeous flowers and sweet scents all year round.

Coastal colours

Use garden art, planter pots, outdoor cushions, pavers and outdoor furniture to create a coastal colour palette in your garden. There are two colour choices for a beachy garden: bright or earthy. If your new garden style is going to be fun and energetic, choose bright summery colours such as yellow, red and blue. If you’d prefer your garden to feel more like a Balinese oasis, choose earthy tones such as white, cream and brown.

Garden layout

If you’re creating a garden from scratch, use this opportunity to get your garden layout right. A rigid layout is not ideal for a beachy garden; instead create that sense of movement and flow by pairing plants with ornamental grass, planter pots and flowers.

Create a dramatic display by planting tropical flowers in oversized planter pots and placing them on the verandah or near the main seating areas. Variety is the order of the day.

Using plants and colour in your backyard can create a blissful beachy feeling. Every time you set foot in your garden, you are going to feel like you are taking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.