The best plants for rocky soil
Garden care and tree surgery tips from Pollard Tree Care, Eastbourne, East Sussex
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When it comes to selecting what plants are the best fit for you garden you need to check certain conditions. Sunlight plays a huge role in what plants are best to be planted and where. If you have the morning sun, this can resulted in as little as 2 hours of direct sunlight in winter Or you can be lucky and have a south facing garden and have 8+ hours of sunlight, meaning that you can grow a wider variety of plants. In these two gardens you will need to choose plants that suit the level of sunlight and there are plants for every condition.
The same goes for soil type and nutrient base. As we mentioned in previous posts you can fertilise your soil with natural fertilisers such as seaweed and also by re-cycling vegetation to create compost. Most plants need need a soil with enough salt, sand and clay (loam soil). This ensures proper drainage and enough nutrients for the plants roots. This is why if you have a rocky garden this can be challenging to plant everything, even when other conditions are favourable. Rocky soil is great for drainage, however retaining nutrients isn’t so easy with this soil so it is best to pick plants prefer this terrain. We have compiled a list of plants that are common in Eastbourne, East Sussex and will be great for wildlife including bees and other insects.
Star Jasmine- Likes a sunny sheltered spot in your garden and with milder temperatures, perfect for Eastbourne. This climbing plant has lovely scented flowers in the summer and is an evergreen.
Golden Oats- Ornamental grass with tall flower heads. This can be planted in the sun or also in light shade, so perfect to fill those spots that don’t get all the sunlight.
Lavender- This plant boasts bight purple, highly scented flowers that attract bees and wildlife. They can withstand full sunlight and are a great touch of colour to any garden
Mexican fleabane- These flowers come back year after year and cover the ground. They will continue to grow and spread and from spring to autumn tiny daisy like flowers will cover the plant. They also like sun or part shade.
Pinks- These plants have been very popular in recent years and you can pick them up in many garden centres and even supermarkets. They enjoy full sun and will come back year after year.
Aloe Vera- There is no surprise that this succulent enjoys rocky soil. In fact many succulents need to have rocky and well draining soil. Just pop in direct sunlight and it can continue to grow and grow.
Baby’s Breath- Seen in many flower arrangements, these tiny delicate white flowers can grow up to a metre wide. Varieties come in white and light pink.
Common Sage- If you want some plants that you can also use then herbs are great to grow in your garden. Not only does it provide a great smell for your garden but is also great for your Sunday roast.
Rosemary- Another herb that doesn’t mind the harsher and rockier soil. This also makes these plants relatively easy to take care of as they are strong and will come back year after year.
Thyme- This ever green herb enjoys well drained soil and direct sunlight. I am seeing a common thread and maybe a herb garden is on the cards!
A few trees that are also great for rocky conditions are Magnolia, Cherry Trees, Olive trees, Maple trees and Apple Trees.
We are always happy to come by and give you a quote on your garden and tree needs. Please contact us here.
