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Gardeners' Questions, Expert Answers

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Biodiversity: how to create refugia for nature in your garden
On page one
by Ingrid
the Tuesday, 3 June 2025
  1. What to Plant in Clay-Limestone Soil? Advice and Suitable Plants Clay-limestone soil can be challenging for gardeners, but with the right approach, it can become a fertile ground for many beautiful and productive plants. Here are some tips and plant suggestions to help you make the most of this soil type. ### Understanding Clay-Limestone Soil Clay-limestone soil is heavy, retains moisture, and can become compacted, making it difficult for roots to penetrate. However, its alkaline nature (due to limestone) also means it is rich in minerals, benefiting certain plants. ### Tips for Gardening in Clay-Limestone Soil 1. **Improve Drainage** – Incorporate organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to break up the clay and enhance soil structure. 2. **Avoid Overwatering** – Clay soil holds water, so be cautious not to drown plant roots. 3. **Choose the Right Plants** – Opt for species that thrive in heavy, alkaline conditions. ### Plants Well-Suited to Clay-Limestone Soil #### Ornamental Plants - **Lavandula angustifolia** (English Lavender) – Loves well-drained, alkaline soil. - **Buxus sempervirens** (Boxwood) – Tolerates heavy soil and limestone. - **Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)** – Thrives in dry, chalky conditions. #### Fruit Trees & Shrubs - **Apple Trees (Malus domestica)** – Many varieties adapt well to clay-limestone soil. - **Viburnum opulus** (Guelder Rose) – Hardy and suited to heavy soils. #### Perennials & Bulbs - **Iris germanica** (Bearded Iris) – Prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline soil. - **Allium** (Ornamental Onion) – Flourishes in limestone-rich ground. By selecting the right plants and improving soil structure, you can create a thriving garden even in clay-limestone conditions. Happy gardening!

    Choosing

    What to Plant in Clay-Limestone Soil? Advice and Suitable Plants Clay-limestone soil can be challenging for gardeners, but with the right approach, it can become a fertile ground for many beautiful and productive plants. Here are some tips and plant suggestions to help you make the most of this soil type. ### Understanding Clay-Limestone Soil Clay-limestone soil is heavy, retains moisture, and can become compacted, making it difficult for roots to penetrate. However, its alkaline nature (due to limestone) also means it is rich in minerals, benefiting certain plants. ### Tips for Gardening in Clay-Limestone Soil 1. **Improve Drainage** – Incorporate organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to break up the clay and enhance soil structure. 2. **Avoid Overwatering** – Clay soil holds water, so be cautious not to drown plant roots. 3. **Choose the Right Plants** – Opt for species that thrive in heavy, alkaline conditions. ### Plants Well-Suited to Clay-Limestone Soil #### Ornamental Plants - **Lavandula angustifolia** (English Lavender) – Loves well-drained, alkaline soil. - **Buxus sempervirens** (Boxwood) – Tolerates heavy soil and limestone. - **Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)** – Thrives in dry, chalky conditions. #### Fruit Trees & Shrubs - **Apple Trees (Malus domestica)** – Many varieties adapt well to clay-limestone soil. - **Viburnum opulus** (Guelder Rose) – Hardy and suited to heavy soils. #### Perennials & Bulbs - **Iris germanica** (Bearded Iris) – Prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline soil. - **Allium** (Ornamental Onion) – Flourishes in limestone-rich ground. By selecting the right plants and improving soil structure, you can create a thriving garden even in clay-limestone conditions. Happy gardening!

    by Olivier

    the Tuesday, 3 June 2025 10 min.
  2. The Tiger Mosquito in the Garden: How to Get Rid of It?
    the Tuesday, 3 June 2025 7 min.
  3. Beginner Gardener: 7 Common Mistakes to Avoid
    the Tuesday, 3 June 2025 6 min.
  4. I don't have green fingers: why is that?
    the Tuesday, 3 June 2025 4 min.
  5. All About Soil Drainage in the Garden
    the Tuesday, 3 June 2025 8 min.
  6. Melliferous Plants and Nectariferous Plants: What Are the Differences?
    the Tuesday, 3 June 2025 4 min.
  7. How to enrich your soil naturally with organic amendments?
    the Tuesday, 3 June 2025 8 min.

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    # Pilea: Growing and Care ## Introduction The **Pilea**, also known as the **Chinese Money Plant** or **Pancake Plant**, is a trendy and easy-to-grow houseplant appreciated for its decorative round leaves. Native to southern China, this plant adds a modern touch to any interior. ## Planting and Repotting - **When to repot?** Preferably in spring, every 2-3 years or when roots emerge from the pot. - **Soil:** Use a well-draining potting mix (houseplant compost with perlite or sand). - **Pot:** Choose a container with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. ## Light and Temperature - **Light:** Bright, indirect light (avoid direct sun, which can scorch leaves). - **Temperature:** 18–24°C (avoid drafts and temperatures below 10°C). ## Watering and Humidity - **Watering:** Keep soil lightly moist—water when the top 2 cm feels dry. Reduce in winter. - **Humidity:** Prefers moderate humidity. Mist leaves occasionally or place on a pebble tray. ## Fertilising - **When?** From spring to autumn, every 4 weeks. - **What?** Diluted liquid fertiliser for green plants. ## Pruning and Maintenance - **Pruning:** Trim leggy stems to encourage bushiness. Remove yellowing leaves. - **Cleaning:** Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust. ## Propagation Easily propagated by separating **offsets** (baby plants) from the mother plant. Plant in moist soil and keep warm until rooted. ## Common Issues - **Drooping leaves:** Over- or underwatering. Adjust watering routine. - **Yellow leaves:** Often due to excess water or poor drainage. - **Pests:** Watch for spider mites or aphids—treat with insecticidal soap. ## Toxicity Non-toxic to pets and humans, making it a safe choice for homes. ## Conclusion With minimal care, the **Pilea** thrives and even produces charming offsets to share. A perfect plant for beginners and plant lovers alike! --- *Note: Botanical names (e.g., *Pilea peperomioides*) remain unchanged in translation.*

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