Mediterranean Garden Design in South Carolina - Lowcountry Mediterranean Landscaping

Blend Charleston elegant garden traditions with Mediterranean courtyard design: walled gardens using Charleston gray brick or tabby stucco, formal geometric layouts with Mediterranean plantings, wrought iron gates opening to gravel courtyards, covered piazzas functioning as Mediterranean loggias. Incorporate Lowcountry proportions and refined details with Mediterranean materials and outdoor living emphasis. Create sophisticated outdoor rooms celebrating both traditions.

Adapt to dramatically different soil conditions. Coastal sandy soils provide excellent drainage naturally but require organic matter for water and nutrient retention: amend with compost and pine bark. Inland Piedmont clay soils need raised beds 10-12 inches high with extensive sand and organic amendments for Mediterranean plant drainage. Use generous gravel mulch statewide. Tailor soil approach to regional conditions for Mediterranean plant success.

Design all coastal structures to withstand hurricane winds: secure anchoring for pergolas and arbors, impact-resistant materials near buildings, sturdy masonry walls, metal roofs properly fastened, removable container elements. Use substantial Charleston-style brick walls naturally hurricane-resistant. Choose wind-tolerant plants staking specimens properly. Mediterranean aesthetic with South Carolina coastal engineering ensures longevity and safety.

Coastal gardens require salt-tolerant Mediterranean alternatives: society garlic, yucca, pampas grass, lantana, vitex, and tough natives like wax myrtle, yaupon holly, and live oak. Rinse foliage after salt spray events. Position sensitive plants in protected locations. Inland gardens avoid salt issues enjoying broader Mediterranean palette. Choose location-appropriate plants considering coastal conditions.

Feature extensive gravel surfaces using South Carolina materials: crushed Charleston gray stone, decomposed granite, oyster shell pathways in coastal areas, local river rock borders. Create gravel courtyards with excellent drainage drying quickly after thunderstorms. Minimize lawn favoring Mediterranean hardscaping. Use tabby (crushed oyster shell concrete) as historic Lowcountry alternative to stucco providing authentic Mediterranean aesthetic with regional character.

Design sophisticated outdoor rooms reflecting South Carolina traditions: covered piazzas for shade and rain protection, walled courtyards ensuring privacy, formal entertaining areas with chandelier lighting, elegant furniture and plantings, outdoor kitchens for gathering. Blend Lowcountry gracious living with Mediterranean al fresco dining. Create beautiful spaces suitable for refined Southern hospitality and everyday family enjoyment.