Some coastal bores — test salinity before irrigation reliance.

NSW Coastal gardening guide

Q: What plants tolerate salt spray?

Coastal natives, saltbush, pigface, many banksias — local nursery advice helps.

Q: Why does my coastal lawn struggle?

Sand + salt + wind — improve soil organic matter and choose tolerant turf.

Q: Do coastal gardeners cost more?

Access and corrosion on equipment can affect pricing marginally.

Q: Wind protection for gardens?

Hedges and permeable windbreaks reduce desiccation.

Q: When to fertilise coastal lawns?

Little and often — nutrients leach in sand.

Coastal gardening in Australia faces salt spray, sandy soils, wind exposure, and variable humidity — plant choice and irrigation differ from inland suburbs.

Find local gardeners

Free — compare quotes from providers in your suburb

Coastal challenges

Salt burn on foliage, fast-draining sandy soils, and wind reshape plant selection. Buffer planting and hardy turf varieties perform better than inland favourites.

Lawns near the coast

Buffalo tolerates salt and shade; couch needs sun. Increase organic matter in sand — water and nutrient leach quickly.

Maintenance

Regular rinsing of salt from foliage after storms; stake young trees; choose corrosion-resistant fixtures for coastal properties.

What to look for in a gardener

A reliable gardener asks about access, slope, pets, and your priorities before quoting. They explain what is included in each visit and flag extra work (heavy pruning, green waste removal) before starting.