by Jack McKinnon

Aug. 1, 2010 — How many times have you gone to the beach and never noticed the landscape on the way? Many people think there is nothing they can grow on the Coastside. This is a myth. I know gardeners that have had extraordinary gardens within a soccer ball kick of the ocean. Here is a list of plants to look up, see at the beach and buy at local nurseries.

1. Grasses grow wonderfully along the coast. Some grow tall and move with the wind and others can be mown and tended like a golf course.

2. Monterey cypress is a stunning shrub that in time turns into a beautiful tree.

Succulents in a happy home. Staff photo.

3. California laurel can be used to form hedges, as can myoporum.

4. Succulents like sedum, senecio, aloe, agave and aeonium can be stunning.

5. Pride of Madeira grows colorful stalks of blue or pink flowers.

6. Roses of several varieties can do well with a fence between them and the shore.

7. Gazania grows low to the ground and has masses of daisy-like flowers in several different colors.

8. Armeria maritima is almost grass-like, growing in tufts, but it sends up small pink puffball flowers.

9. Pittosporum is a hearty shrub that comes in many forms. Look up what is best for your location.

Coastal roses. Staff photo.

10. Native plants can be found that will make a natural-looking and non-invasive planting. Look up California native shore plants in your garden book for a list. Try a new one each month and in a year you will have a stunning garden.

Good gardening!

Jack McKinnon worked in Sunset’s gardens for 12 years and is now a garden coach. He can be reached at 650-879-3261, on his cell phone at 650-455-0687, or by e-mail at jack@jackthegardencoach.com.