The low-down on clay soils – Part 2

How do I know I have clay soil?

Do a simple garden soil test. Dig in your garden a bit, and if the soil sticks to your shoes and garden tools like glue or forms big clods which aren’t easy to separate – you have clay soil.

Why clay can be bad

While many trees and shrubs grow well in clay, the roots of the majority of annuals, perennials and vegetables just aren’t strong enough to make their way through. On poorly drained clay, water-logging can cause stationary water, which will cause plants’ roots to rot.

In these beds, it is best to select plants that enjoy growing in marshy, wet areas. This does not mean these beds will never require watering, as these plants need constant moisture at root level and must not be allowed to dry out, or they will die. Only a few species will stand this condition.

Select plants well-suited for clay

Choosing the right plants to grow in clay soil is important. Plants needing a well-drained soil are certainly not going to be happy growing in clay, but if the beds are correctly prepared many plants will thrive. Daisies, irises, ferns, grasses, viburnums and daylilies do well in clay soil.