Plants that grow in costal gardens must be exceptionally tough, not only do they have to contend with severe winter gales but also with scorching salt spray. Nevertheless, the proximity to the sea reduces the incidence of hard frosts. In costal gardens many slightly tender plants will thrive when they might otherwise fail further inland. 

 Costal gardens will benefit from a windbreak surrounding the garden to alleviate the worst effects of salt laden winds. A fence of woven hazel or willow hurdles for example will give temporary shelter until a living windbreak grows tall enough to be useful. Many plants that succeed in costal sites have special adaptations to enable them tolerate the worst effects of wind and salt spray. Plants that have grey or tough leathery leaves, dwarf ground hugging plants and hairy leafed plants survive best in these conditions. You can also be sure that a plant with "littoralis" (meaning of the shore) or "maritima" in its name will be in its element in the costal garden.