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How can I minimise salt wind, frost, drought and wind damage?

When you are establishing gardens near the sea, or even several kilometres from the coast, plants may be affected by:

Salt winds that burn leaves — the closer to the sea the more salt-hardy they need to be, particularly on exposed west coast sites.  Refer to our database search facilityfor salt hardy species.

Light free-draining soils â€” Unless they are being assisted with irrigation through dry spells, the need for drought tolerant species may apply - see search facility under 'tolerating dry soils'.

Frost — even gardens right on the coast can be hit by frost — if this is the case in your area, try frost hardy plants. - See our search facility under frost hardy plants.  Also note that some species are vulnerable to frost as young, juvenile plants, but when they are larger and more established, they will tolerate frost conditions.  Therefore with these species artificial protection when young can be the answer, or plant more established specimens at the outset. 
 
'Timing' can also be critical.  Early autumn or spring planting can be beneficial depending on the species and potential growth rates.

Wind damage can be avoidable

Don't lose precious ornamentals plants through wind damage - Establish some form of shelter first!

The answer to protecting plants from wind damage is to provide good shelter.  Matatoa has been supplying suitable species to homeowners, lifestylers, farmers, landscapers and councils for years. Many of these satisfied clients are well into planting more ornamental and less hardy species now they have good shelter established.  
 

Shelter doesn't necessarily mean a 10-15m high shelter belt.  It can take the form of a hedge or a mixed native planting for example, that will end up providing an easier environment for plants to establish in.
 

Protect your new garden assets by choosing wisely which plants will suit your environment.  Our trained staff are more than willing to assist you with your selection.

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