Soil Preparation For Flowers And Shrubs

Before you plant your new shrubs, perform a soil test to determine its pH level.  Soil test kits are readily available at most greenhouses and nurseries.  Most plants prefer a pH level somewhere between 5.8 and 6.5.  Outside of this range it becomes difficult for plants to get the nutrients they need.  To adjust a pH level which is too high, meaning the soil is alkaline, add aluminum sulfate.  Soils which are acidic have low pH levels; adding lime will create more favorable planting conditions. 
 
Soil composition is also critical to the growth of healthy root systems.  Most plants will not do well in exceedingly sandy soil or in poorly drained clay soil.  Grading and conditioning the site to provide adequate drainage should be done before you begin planting.  If you’re planning a garden in clay soil composted bark or other course textured organic material will improve drainage.  It may also be necessary to build up the garden, creating raised beds.  This will allow oxygen to reach the roots and cause excess water to drain away from the plant rather than collecting beneath it.
 
Because they are so well drained, sandy soils don’t hold water or nutrients well.  Sandy soils, as opposed to clay soils, require the addition of water retentive organic matter such as manure, compost and peat moss.  When adding your soil amendments avoid uncomposted bark or wood chips as they tend to rob plants of nitrogen
 
Compacted and poorly drained soils contain little oxygen, which plant need in order to grow. Though some plants tolerate soils with low oxygen, most grow poorly or die. Although most types of soil can become compacted, clay presents plants the most difficult challenge.
 
Other conditions such as existing vegetation should be considered carefully.  Most of the time existing trees can add character to a garden so think about how you may use them to your advantage.  By pruning some lower branches you may be able to let enough dappled light in beneath the tree to plant a woodland garden. If there’s a tree on the property which seems to stand out from the rest use it as a focal point in your garden.
 
Getting to know the conditions of your site before you begin planning and planting can be the difference between success and disappointment.  Properly planned gardens ensure the time you invest in you garden is worth it, as each properly placed plant thrives.

Related Articles: Perennials, Annuals, Garden Soil, Garden Preparation