Redoing a small backyard with firepit on a canal

[magnum]

Hi. I am redoing my backyard in Florida and might use your advise on designing it. I want to move the firepit a little bit away from the seawall since I would be putting a fence along. I am fine with changing the shape. Same with the palms, I need to relocate these as well. I would also want some seating near the firepit and add some landscaping and shrubs. I also want to add some artificial grass sections to add green color (can't use real grass due to seawall anchoring and pipes). There is a lot going on such a small yard since there is a seawall, walkways, paved patio area, retaining wall and a shed. I would really appreciate your insights!

 

[oneeye]

Wow it looks like to me you have everything figured out pretty well friend. Your yard is going to look awesome this Spring and Summer. Beautiful landscape in a beautiful place too. Thank you for sharing your work with us and please keep us posted in the future.

Soil near the ocean usually has a high salt content in the soil from the seawater, which can seep into the ground and elevate salinity levels, especially in low-lying coastal areas. The term is "coastal saline soil" and can negatively impact plant growth due to the high salt concentration. Is that an issue here with you?

 

[redback]

Yes, that is a scenic site with the water as focus. I wouldn't use artificial grass but a fine gravel around the firepit. I would keep the view of the river open and where the palms are put in a salt tolerant low bush edging to the river edge. The path to the boat could be planted out both sides and over to the fence with taller shrubs and trees to add shade wind protection and a green backdrop.
I would be interested to see you solution.