BC: PLANTS FOR CLAY SOILS
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If you live in a place that has clay soil and you are struggling to
keep your plants alive, all is not lost. You can have a lush and
beautiful landscape. You just have to know how to grow plants
in clay soil and which plants thrive in this type of dirt.
The good news is that clay soil is packed with nutrients.
The bad news is that it can be hard for plants to tap into those nutrients.
Clay soil tends to pack together tightly cutting off all oxygen and suffocating the plants.
When it is dry, it is nearly impossible to penetrate with water.
When it gets wet it turns into a sticky mess. If you dig a hole for a plant,
that hole turns into a basin that drowns the roots. So what to do.
Methods to Deal with Clay Soil
You could make attempts to condition the soil. Many soil amendments will
make hard-packed clay into workable soil. However, this is usually a process
that takes time and patience.
You could also practice the proper technique for planting clay soil –
a technique that requires the root ball to be raised 3-4 inches above ground level.
This allows the roots to receive oxygen and avoids the problem of creating a basin.
It also ensures that the root flare is above elevation (a common mistake that causes
trees to suffer), and leaves plenty of room for settling. For heavy clay, a combination
of this technique and soil amendments work best.
You could also use plants that thrive in clay soil. In doing so, you will better ensure success.
Also, these types of plants will help to break up that hard soil with their roots and begin the
process of naturally amending the soil. However, they will still need to be planted with the
correct method for clay soils.
What Type of Root Systems Are Best for Clay Soil When it comes to clay soil,
the best plants have particular types of root systems. Plants that have deep and/or
strong taproots can tunnel right through some of the heaviest clay soils with no problem.
These are great for breaking up hard soils and reaching deep to bring nutrients to
the surface but are generally not planted for their beauty.
Plants that have a rhizome root system tend to do well in clay.
These types of plants grow in clumps with roots that spread out to the side rather
than downward. Most are shallow with the tops of the rhizome exposed. Because
of this structure, the plants do not suffer from oxygen depletion the way other root
systems can.
There are many plants with very dense fibrous roots that do well in clay.
These are typically clumping as well. Grasses and sedges are good
examples of this type of system.
Plants that do well in wet or boggy areas can often tolerate clay soils.
You may need to make a few concessions mentioned before, but since
these type of root systems enjoy frequent water logged settings, they can
survive the slower drainage that comes with clay soil.
Unfortunately, most of those trees are more suitable for large parks or lawns and
won’t work for the average patio or landscape. However, there are some good
selections to be found for ornamental trees that will thrive in clay soil.
Sweetbay Magnolia:
Because clay soil is known for its bathtub/basin effect, many of the trees
that will thrive under these conditions are trees that prefer boggy areas.
This is true for the Sweetbay Magnolia.
Known for its smaller but very fragrant version of the magnolia blooms,
Sweetbay makes a beautiful specimen or patio tree. It can take full sun in
most locations and will even thrive in dappled shade in warmer climates.
Sweetbay will grow about 12 – 24 inches per year and will reach a height
of 15 – 20 feet. It can thrive in zones 5 – 9; However, in zones 5 and 6 it will
perform like a deciduous tree. While in zones 7 through 9, this tree
will be evergreen.
Saucer Magnolia:
Saucer magnolias are one of the first bloomers each spring. They have large deep
pink to purplish blooms that are quite stunning. It prefers full sun and may require
early protection in colder climates.
The saucer magnolia is also a medium grower, putting on an extra 12- 24 inches
each year. It grows in a rounded form and will reach approximately 25 feet.
Plant this tree in zones 4 – 9.
Little Gem
This is a smaller version of the traditional southern magnolia. It will only reach between
20-25 feet which makes it an excellent choice for smaller properties, patios, and
specimen trees. It has a slow growth that prefers full sun to part sun.
Like the rest of these trees, Little Gem can withstand occasional light flooding and also
short periods of drought once it is established. Plant this tree in zones 6-10.
Hostas
Hostas grow dense mounds of large leaves that come in a large selection of green
and creams. They perform very well in clay soil and can be divided in early spring or
late fall. However, they are a favorite plant amongst deer and you may need to
deal with slugs, but they are well worth the effort.
They do not tolerate sunny areas well. So, plant these in shady spots or in dappled
sunlight only. These are hardy in zones 3 – 8.
Daylillies
Daylillies are a popular choice when it comes to clumping plants. Their large blooms
attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
Deer love to eat these, though. So, if you have deer that frequent your landscaping,
place these in a location that will provide protection. Otherwise, they will be a
much-appreciated buffet.
They bloom late summer to early fall and prefer full sun – part shade.
They are hardy in zones 3 – 9.
Cone flower
This sun-loving perennial is from the daisy family. It is also a clump-forming plant that
can be divided about every four years and is a big attractor for both butterflies and bees.
It blooms from mid-summer through early fall and needs full sun.
Plant these in zones 3-9.
Sedum
Sedum, AKA Stonecrop, comes in many varieties. Of these autumn Joy is a great
choice for dry clay soil. In fact, these are very drought tolerant.
They also attract butterflies and other pollinating insects.
They bloom large landing pads of gorgeous tight pink flowers from late summer
through early fall and go on to provide beautiful winter interest.
They prefer full sun and are hardy in zones 3 – 9.
Bee Balm
Also popular for its ability to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and pollinating bees is Bee Balm.
It is loved for its beautiful flowers that come in shades of pinks, purples, and even white.
Blooms appear from early-mid summer. They don’t like to be crowded,
so make sure they have adequate space for air to circulate.
Plant these in moist sunny locations and they will do well.
They are hardy in zones 3 – 9.
Bearded Iris
Bearded irises require well-draining soil or they suffer from root rot.
This may seem to be a contradiction for most clay soils. However, these beauties
prefer their rhizomes to barely be covered with soil.
In fact, many gardeners prefer the rhizomes to be only half covered.
This means that even in clay soil, it is easy to plant these so that they are
not standing in water. In heavy soil, adding amendments to the first few inches
is usually enough to allow irises to get established.
They are a favorite with butterflies and hummingbirds. For best results plant them
in full sun unless you live in one of the warmer southern areas where these
can tolerate a bit of afternoon shade. They bloom from late spring-early summer
and can be grown in zones 3-9.
Black Eyed Susan
These too will attract butterflies and bees. What’s more, they will bring goldfinches
to your lawn. They are a great source of food for birds during the winter and are one
of the few plants that are deer resistant.
They produce vibrant blooms in yellow with large, velvet, brown, centers from mid-summer
all through early fall. They like moist soil with full to part sun and will grow in zones 3-9.
Smooth Hydrangea
Smooth hydrangea (aka wild hydrangea) such as Annabelle can be found on wooded
slopes and near creeks and streams. They will grow in clay soil and when given
similar conditions to their preferred natural locations (i.e moist and shady) they will thrive.
Avoid giving them too much direct afternoon sun and don’t let them dry out and they will
be their happiest. These grow between three-five feet and on occasion have been known
to grow a bit taller.
They also grow on new wood which means you can gut back the plants during the winter
without worry. Smooth hydrangeas bloom from early to mid-summer.
Plant in part shade in zones 3-9.
Shrubs are typically what we choose to add variations in height for
our landscaping. They can go places where trees can’t, and they are often the go-to
plant when choosing foundation plants.
Knockout Roses
Knockout roses are by far the easiest roses you will ever grow. They are also one
of the most proliferate bloomers of any shrub. They bloom from spring all the way through fall.
I have even had mine put out blooms during the winter when the weather has been mild.
You can plant these in rows, groupings, or as individual accents.
Most varieties will reach up to four feet high and several feet wide within just a few years.
In fact, without proper pruning, these shrubs can achieve several feet more than the labels indicate.
These need full sun but can tolerate a small amount of shade. When pruned to be kept compact,
they pair nicely with panicle hydrangeas. Plant these in zones 5 – 10.
Dogwood Shrubs
Dogwood shrubs, not to be confused with the more finicky dogwood tree, are spectacular
shrubs that provide even more spectacular winter color. They can handle almost anything
thrown at them – clay soil, sun or shade, wet or dry, deer or rabbit.
This one has it all covered.
A few of the most popular dogwoods are arctic fire and arctic sun. However, there are
many other varieties that range in color, size, and hardiness zones. You can find
dogwood shrubs for zones 2 – 9. However, many varieties are restricted to zones 4 – 7.
So, check before you buy.
Aronia (AKA Chokeberry)
Chokeberries are covered in tiny springtime flowers and have vibrant fall colors.
They thrive in all types of problem soils including boggy soil and clay.
These are favorites for woodland gardens and look lovely next to a pond.
Plant these in full sun to part shade. The red varieties are hardy in zones 4 – 9,
and the black variety in zones 3 – 8.
Winterberry
This Holly is another shrub that is popular for its amazing winter color.
It can handle heavy clay, wet conditions, and shade. But, to produce berries,
you must have at least one male pollinator for every four to five females.
Most landscaping/gardening centers will have a recommended male to pair with your choice.
However, they may not be required if you live in an area that is already
populated with winterberries.
These shrubs do well in full sun to part shade and are hardy in zones 3 – 9.
Ornamental Grasses and Ground Covers should not be overlooked when
planning your clay soil landscape. These are great at breaking up hard soil.
They work well around patios, ponds, walkways, and even as focal points.
Plus, many varieties add visual interest during the winter.
Miscanthus Morning Light (AKA Maiden grass)
This elegant beauty can grow in some of the worst soil conditions.
Not only is it tolerant of clay soil, but it is also tolerant of less than ideal drainage.
It grows in clump form and can be divided about every four to five years.
This maiden grass should not be cut back until early spring.
But why would you anyway?
The leaf blades create some spectacular winter interest.
It prefers full sun but will tolerate part shade in warmer zones.
Be sure to give these plenty of room to expand.
Overcrowding with each other will make it difficult to do divisions later on.
Plant them in zones 5-9
Liriope – (AKA Lily Turf or Monkey Grass)
There are two types of Liriope – Muscari and Spicata. You want to make sure that
you are aware of which type you are planting.
Spicata spreads very quickly by runners and is best suited for ground cover.
It does not make a good border plant as it can and will take over the entire bed.
Muscari grows in clumps that behave similarly to other clumping grass forms.
It makes good borders plants and does well in areas where you want to maintain
a controlled boundary.
All varieties produce small spikes with blooms in either white, pinks, or purples.
However, they are typically chosen for their evergreen beauty. Leaf colors come
in shades of green, blue-green, and variegated forms.
You can find selections in both shade and full sun tolerant.
They are hardy in zones 6 – 10.
A few varieties can survive the warmer areas of zone 5.
These are just a few great performers for those of use cursed (blessed)
with a yard full of clay soil. From this selection, a large lush landscape can be had.
Try some!
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