• On the coast we generally have very sandy soils which require large quantities of organic matter. So when you planting, don't just did a hole and chuck them in, fill the hole with about one third well rotted compost and turn it into the soil, then add water and plant. It is also a good idea to add a small amount of fertiliser to this mix, preferably a fertiliser high in phosphates, which helps promote root growth, something like "Super Phosphate" or "2:3:2"
  An excellent product for our sandy soils is called "Aqua Soil 2000" This product comes in a dry powder form and when water is added it absorbs the water and expands into a jelly likes sludge which prevents the water from draining away. The plant now has small reservoir of water it can draw from. This product is also impregnated with slow release fertiliser (3:2:2 (14) SR). Some of the advantages of using this product are :-
  (i) Water and nutrient reservoir.
  (ii) Drought protection.
  (iii) Reduces evaporation.
  (iv) Increases root mass.
  (v) Stops leaching.
  (vi) Reduces mortality.
  (vii) Better aeration.
  (viii) Prevents salination.
  (ix) Enviroment Friendly
  (x) Non-toxic.
  
• Due to the sandy soils and extensive agriculture over the past 150 years our soils are generally very poor so it is also advisable to work out a fertilizing and composting program program for you garden and stick to it religiously.
  
• Next thing to remember is water, water, water. Water is becoming more and more expensive so it is a good idea to design your garden carefully. Indigenous plants generally need less watering as they have evolved in our climate but this does not mean you don't have to water at all. A long deep watering less frequently is far more beneficial to the plants as they then develop a deep root system which is less susceptible to drought. A light frequent watering causes a very shallow roots system which is easily burnt by the sun and makes your plants very susceptible to drought and finally is a waste of money as most of the water you put on will evaporate before the plant can use it!
  
• To help conserve water mulch all your garden beds with any grass clippings or small leaves (Don't through them away!) In my experience on the Dolphin Coast I have found that this is probably the most important gardening practices you can teach yourself.
  (1) You save money on refuse removal.
  (2) You save water and therefore money again.
  (3) You help regulate the surface soil temperature. (You know how hot the beach sand can be in the sun, well so can your soil in your garden if it is not protected.)
  (4) You return vital nutrients back into the soil in the form of compost.
  (5) The mulch layer also attracts a variety of insects some good, some bad but remember nature always strives for a balance.