Gardening in Cracks and Crevices: A Guide to Planting in Rocky Landscapes
Introduction:
Have you ever wanted to add some greenery to your rocky garden but weren’t sure where to start? Planting in cracks and crevices can be a great way to add beauty and interest to your landscape, even in challenging conditions. With the right plant choices and care, you can create a thriving garden in even the smallest of spaces.
Choosing Plants for Cracks and Crevices
The key to success when planting in cracks and crevices is to choose plants that are well-suited to the specific conditions. Here are some factors to consider:
- Soil: Crevices often have very little soil, so plants need to be able to survive with minimal nutrients.
- Water: Cracks and crevices can dry out quickly, so plants need to be drought-tolerant or able to withstand occasional flooding.
- Sunlight: Some crevices may be in shady areas, while others may receive full sun. Choose plants that can tolerate the amount of sunlight available.
Plant Ideas for Dry, Sunny Areas:
- Thyme
- Pinks
- Rockroses
- Creeping phlox
- Candytuft
- Creeping jenny
- Snow in summer
- Wooly yarrow
- Artemisia
- Rock cress
- Small sedges
- Saxifraga
- Sedum
- Ice plant
Plant Ideas for Partially Shady and Moist Areas:
- Angel’s fishing rod
- Small ferns
- Ivy
- Vinca
- Bellflower
- Columbine
- Sandwort
- Bugleweed
- Catmint
- Lilyturf
- Mondo grass
- Sweet flag
Planting and Care Tips
Once you’ve chosen your plants, it’s important to plant and care for them properly to ensure their success. Here are some tips:
- Prepare the planting site: Remove any debris or loose rocks from the crevice. If the soil is very compacted, you may need to loosen it with a small tool.
- Choose young plants: Young plants have smaller root systems, making it easier to fit them into tight spaces.
- Prepare the roots: Remove the plant from its nursery pot and gently loosen the roots. Soak the roots in water for a few minutes to help them absorb moisture.
- Plant the plant: Carefully insert the roots into the crevice and pack compost around them. Water the plant well.
- Water regularly: Crevices can dry out quickly, so it’s important to water your plants regularly, especially during hot weather.
- Avoid overwatering: Overwatering can damage plants in crevices, so be sure to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Protect plants from damage: Avoid stepping on or crushing plants in crevices. If possible, keep them out of high-traffic areas.
Additional Tips
- Use slow-release fertilizer: This will help to provide nutrients to your plants over time without over-fertilizing.
- Spread gravel or mulch around your plants: This will help to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
- Be patient: It may take some time for your plants to establish themselves in cracks and crevices. With proper care, they will eventually thrive and add beauty to your garden.
By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden in even the smallest of spaces. So get creative and experiment with different plant combinations to find what works best for your landscape.