En underbar, gammal trädgård i Torslanda

A Well-Established Garden in Coastal Torslanda

Over the years and across the changing seasons, we have had the joy of experiencing a well-established, mature garden in Hjuvik with much character. The comparison to wine tasting might sound a bit fanciful, but in both cases, time really does enhance the result – both wine and gardens only get better as they age!

Thoughtful Planning from the Start

The garden was established about 30–35 years ago. Starting with careful planning, the owners decided where trees, bushes, and hedges would fit best into the existing landscape, which had previously been a traditional garden with a few fruit and ornamental trees, berry bushes, the obligatory potato patch, and a lawn. Only those trees that truly had to go were removed; for example, all fruit trees were kept, as they bring structure and beauty to an old garden.

Over time, new trees and bushes were added, along with an oxel hedge, chosen for its ability to protect against wind and its salt tolerance. In coastal areas like Torslanda, salt blown in by autumn storms can cause real headaches for gardeners, so selecting plants that can withstand these conditions is crucial.

During particularly severe salt events, such as the infamous 1969 hurricane, the plants had to be rinsed with water for several days to remove salt build-up and prevent lasting damage. Wind protection is also essential in these exposed areas – without it, more delicate plants can be severely affected and sometimes do not survive for more than a few seasons.

Thoughtful Design Choices

The early, well-considered placement of features helped create a garden that has withstood decades of coastal weather and developed ever more character and resilience.

Plant Choices for Year-Round Interest

From the beginning, a major focus was placed on evergreens such as yew (Taxus), various conifers, and rhododendrons to ensure the garden would offer interest in all seasons. Clematis were encouraged to climb up walls and trees, providing a vertical dimension. Roses, of course, were included; although as trees and bushes matured, increasing shade made it a challenge for them to thrive.

A key theme has been the creation of a shady garden, which now proves to be an advantage given the acidic precipitation on Sweden’s west coast. The beds are abundantly planted with hostas (funkia), which are sadly a delicacy for slugs, but still beautiful. The blue, thick-leaved Hosta varieties have been found to be more resistant to slug damage.

Other feature plants include the elegant Magnolia 'Heaven Scent' and carpets of scilla in the spring. Throughout the garden, you can discover combinations such as Rosa glauca mingling with rhododendron, and even the striking Anemone 'Monstrosa' rose form.

Evergreens and Perennials

Plantings are layered for texture and year-round interest, so even in winter the garden remains lively and structured.

Adapting to Coastal Challenges

Establishing a flourishing garden in this windy, salt-exposed environment meant making careful plant choices:

• Oxel for hedging, both wind- and salt-tolerant
• Selection of tough evergreens like yew, conifers, and rhododendron
• Use of groundcovers and shade-tolerant plants like hosta

If you are planning a coastal garden, consider salt- and wind-tolerant species such as sea buckthorn, dwarf black pine, or Ölandstok, alongside common privet or snöbär for hardy structure. Careful placement and thoughtful layering of trees, shrubs, and evergreens is the key to success.

Dealing with Exposure

Mitigating the effects of wind and salt is an ongoing process, requiring vigilance and adaptation as conditions change.

Beauty Through the Seasons

This Hjuvik garden is an example of how sound planning, patience, and the right plant choices can create an outdoor environment rich in year-round beauty. Its magic is especially apparent in spring, when fruit trees, magnolia, scilla carpets, and shrubs bloom, and in autumn, when vibrant colors set the trees ablaze in the sunlight.

A Living Testament

Over time, the garden has developed into a living testament to what can be achieved even in challenging settings. With its well-planned evergreens, creative plant combinations, and thoughtful protection against wind and salt, it offers inspiration for anyone wishing to develop a beautiful, sustainable, and characterful garden on the coast.