Living along New Jersey's beautiful coastline comes with unique rewards—ocean views, sea breezes, and easy beach access. But coastal homeowners also face challenges that inland properties rarely encounter: storm surges, nuisance flooding, and the gradual effects of erosion.
Whether you own a primary residence or a vacation home in Avalon, Stone Harbor, or elsewhere on the Seven Mile Island, understanding how to protect your property through thoughtful landscaping is essential. The right approach not only preserves your investment but creates a more resilient, beautiful outdoor space.
Understanding Coastal Erosion and Flooding
Coastal erosion occurs when wind, waves, and water gradually wear away soil and vegetation. Flooding—especially "nuisance" or "sunny day" flooding—happens during high tides, storms, or heavy rainfall when water has nowhere to drain.
Both issues are becoming more frequent along the Jersey Shore. The combination of rising sea levels, increased storm intensity, and sandy soils makes proactive landscaping more important than ever.
Native Plants: Your First Line of Defense
One of the most effective ways to combat erosion is by planting native vegetation with deep, strong root systems. These plants stabilize the soil, reduce runoff, and help absorb excess water during storms.
Top choices for coastal New Jersey properties include:
- American Beach Grass – Anchors dunes and tolerates salt spray
- Bayberry – Tough, low-maintenance shrub with year-round appeal
- Seaside Goldenrod – Vibrant late-season blooms and erosion control
- Switchgrass – Native ornamental grass ideal for waterfront areas
These species aren't just functional—they also enhance the natural beauty of your property and require minimal upkeep once established.
Hardscaping for Structure and Stability
While plants are critical, strategic hardscaping elements provide additional protection and visual interest.
Retaining walls help prevent soil from washing away on sloped properties. When designed properly, they blend seamlessly with the landscape while offering essential structural support.
Terracing transforms steep areas into level planting zones, reducing water runoff and giving roots more time to absorb moisture.
Permeable pavers for walkways and patios allow rainwater to filter through instead of pooling on the surface, reducing flooding and directing water safely into the ground.
These features work best when designed with your property's unique layout, drainage patterns, and aesthetic goals in mind.
Mulch and Ground Cover
Organic mulch is a simple yet powerful tool in flood and erosion prevention. A 2-3 inch layer of quality mulch:
- Retains soil moisture
- Protects against wind erosion
- Reduces the impact of heavy rain on bare soil
- Adds nutrients as it breaks down
Ground covers like creeping thyme or sedum also stabilize soil while adding texture and color to your landscape.
Drainage Solutions
Proper drainage is essential for managing water flow and preventing damage. Poor drainage leads to pooling, foundation issues, and plant loss.
Key drainage strategies include:
- French drains to redirect water away from structures
- Rain gardens that capture and filter stormwater naturally
- Grading adjustments to guide water toward safe outlets
A professional assessment can identify problem areas and recommend tailored solutions that work with your property's topography.
How This Applies to Lawns in Our Area
Coastal properties in Avalon, Stone Harbor, and surrounding communities face unique environmental pressures. Salt spray, sandy soils, high winds, and seasonal storms require a landscape that's both beautiful and resilient.
At Blue Lawns, we specialize in designing and maintaining coastal properties that can withstand these challenges. Our team understands the local climate, native plant species, and best practices for erosion control and flood prevention.
We've helped countless homeowners protect their properties through:
- Custom planting plans featuring native, salt-tolerant species
- Hardscape installations that blend form and function
- Drainage improvements that prevent water damage
- Seasonal maintenance to keep your landscape healthy year-round
Protect Your Property for Generations
Coastal erosion and flooding aren't problems you can ignore. But with the right landscaping approach, you can protect your property while enhancing its beauty and value.
Whether you're dealing with active erosion, want to improve drainage, or simply want to create a more resilient landscape, professional guidance makes all the difference.