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Exposed and Coastal Sites


Selecting trees to withstand the perils of being planted in coastal and exposed conditions is perhaps a little easier than you might expect, for the simple reason we know the species that will survive!

Choosing the correct trees for planting in Coastal conditions is extremely important, as a very limited number of species are able to cope with the harsh conditions that a coastal area subjects trees to. The constant salt-laden coastal winds result in the failure of many species to establish and ultimately results in death. Despite the fact that it is difficult to find trees that will establish in coastal conditions, there are a few that are proven to withstand this harsh environment, although the choices are limited to a few species.

There is more flexibility when choosing species for exposed sites, as the largest problem that the trees are being subjected to is strong, cold winds. There are a number of species that will tolerate exposed sites, but a cold, exposed site does rule out most ornamental species such as Magnolia’s, Malus, Prunus, Robinia and Gleditsia to name but a few.

So, in theory, making the right selection is a necessity; but how can this choice be made with confidence? In order to help you to make a suitable decision, we have established a short list of species that will thrive in exposed and coastal environments:

• Acer pseudoplatanus Negenia

• Populus tremula

• Quercus ilex 

• Sorbus intermedia

• Tamarix tentandra

Please see the Related Trees section for further ideas of trees that are perfect for Cold, Exposed and Coastal conditions.