Clay soil is a challenge for even the most seasoned gardener; the wet and dense nature can leave little room for air and water to move, making it hard for things to grow. Plus, when it’s left in the sun, the soil can bake like a brick.
Plants to Consider for Clay Soil
Even though it’s a challenge, gardening in clay soil is possible. First thing’s first, finding the right plants to grow. Keep reading for some information on a few good candidates.
Black-Eyed Susan
The black-eyed Susan is an adaptable and low-maintenance plant to grow. These flowers are known to bloom for months and live for years; plus, the black-eyed Susan will tolerate a range of soils, just so long as the soil will drain well.
To grow this adaptable plant, be sure to place them in a location that receives full sun or partial shade. Additionally, gardeners should make sure to keep the plants well-watered until they’re established; after that, the plants will be able to handle drought and humidity.
Blazing Star
The blazing star, or the Liatris spicata, is a great way to give your garden a bit of reliable color and drama. The plants bloom from mid-summer to autumn, producing tall spikes of vibrant purple, bottlebrush flowers.
These plants tend to prefer locations with full sun and well-draining soil. Once established, the plants tend to be drought-tolerant, so be sure not to over-water them. Another plus: these plants are rich in nectar and pollen, making them fantastic at attracting pollinators.
Butterfly Weed
Butterfly weed plants produce bright orange, red, or yellow blooms throughout the summer. The plants will attract many different pollinators and beneficial insects like hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.
Cousins to the milkweed, Butterfly weed plants are clumping perennials that will grow up to 36 inches tall. Growing butterfly weed is a relatively easy task; simply make sure you’re gardening within hardiness zones 3 to 9 and place the plant in a location that receives bright sunlight.
Drooping Coneflower
The drooping coneflower is a fast-growing plant that can come in pale pink, pale purple, or white colors. These low-maintenance flowers are adaptable and resilient, making them a great choice for even the newest gardener.
Additionally, the flowers are deer-resistant, heat and humidity-tolerant, and drought tolerant. Plus with the flowers’ long-lasting blooms, they are a great addition to any garden.
Make sure your garden is located within the hardiness zones 3 to 8, the location receives full sun exposure, and the soil is well-draining for the best results.
Start Gardening
Of course, there are a variety of other plants that can be grown in clay soil environments; so make sure to do some more research if none of these plants appeal to you.
Just make sure, when planting, to follow all the plants’ requirements including sun exposure and recommended hardiness zones; this will help ensure that your plants will thrive, even in the hard, clay soil!
