Plants for a Purpose

Plants for clay soils  (Neutral to slightly acid) Click on the picture to link to the list

Clay soils hold moisture during the winter months and often dry out and crack in the summer. They can be improved by adding humus such as leaf-mould, compost or well rotted manure and grit. Plants that do well in this type of soil are hardy and not difficult to grow often thought of as 'ordinary' they incude many excellent trees and a choice of deciduous and evergreen shrubs.

Plants for shallow chalk soils  Click on the picture to link to the list

Shallow chalk soils are alkaline so ericaceous subjects are not suitable. They are generally well drained and can be improved with the addition of well rotted compost, leaf mould or manure all of which help to hold the moisture. Mulching in the spring will also help to hold the moisture in.

Trees and shrubs suitable for damp sites   Click on the picture to link to the list

Plants suitable for soils that are moist throughout the year but not literally under water or where the planting holes fill up when dug

Plants suitable for shady places   Click on the picture to link to the list

Remember that shade can be in various degrees, it can be dappled, not have much direct sunlight or be under the canopy of dense headed trees which is a very difficult situation with very limited options.

Plants suitable for industrial areas   Click on the picture to link to the list

These plants are generally easy and tough with the ability to cope with high pollution levels.

Plants enjoyed by bees   Click on the picture to link to the list

These plants are useful for feeding ouir important wild and domesticated bees