· A good rock garden soil mixture consists of approximately equal parts good quality topsoil, fine pebbles or gravel, and peat moss or leaf mold. You can add a small amount of compost or manure but use organic materials sparingly. · This article explores how to select and prepare an ideal soil mix for rockery planting, ensuring your garden flourishes with vibrant, hardy plants. Understanding the Unique Requirements of Rockery Plants · Test your soil first — dig a hole, fill it with water, and see how fast it drains. If it’s slow, amend with sand, compost, and crushed gravel before placing rocks. · A well-drained soil mix is essential for successful gardening, particularly in rock gardens. An effective mixture consists of half coarse sand or crushed gravel combined with quality garden loam, supplemented with compost and rock dust like Planters II, which is rich in trace minerals. Finding plants that thrive between rocks can be challenging. Many garden favorites thrive in the quick-draining soil and full sun exposure typical of rockgardens. · Involving plants in rockgarden construction, I focus on drought-tolerant alpines, native grasses, and low-maintenance shrubs which all thrive in the drainage provided by stony soil. Creating a suitable soil base for your rockgarden involves improving drainage while providing essential nutrients for your plants. Start by removing any existing grass, weeds, or debris in the chosen area.
