Wet clay soil trees
15 Trees For Wet Clay Soil That Are Great For Landscaping
When it comes to a clay-filled landscape, you may feel a little limited in the plants and trees you can plant. You cannot simply throw in some nursery-grown plants into the soil and expect them to flourish. It takes a little bit of tender loving care to get them established. Over time, they will acclimate to their new home.
We know how important and rewarding it is to have a tree-filled landscape! So, if you have an area full of clay and are wondering what you can plant, look no further. We compiled a list of 15 trees that perform well in wet clay soil. So, without further ado, let's get into it!
1. Alder
Alder trees are fast-growing deciduous trees that belong to the birch family. There is a handful of alder tree varieties, each one having slightly different characteristics. Overall, their leaves are simple, alternate, and serrated. Each tree has both male and female flowers, called catkins. Incredibly, depending on the variety, the alder tree can reach between 10 and 120 feet in height. Its Latin name is Alnus.
These types of trees can naturally harness nitrogen, allowing them to grow in areas with less fertile soil (like clay). It thrives anywhere with damp grounds. Once the tree's roots have been established, it can survive some drought.
Future Shade Trees
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Priyanka Chopra Jonas (@priyankachopra)
Due to their fast growth, alder trees can become great shade trees in no time. Planting them in a group will ensure that there will be adequate shade.
2. Willow
Willow trees look whimsical in any landscape. The tree features long, sweeping branches with silvery green leaves extending from them. It can reach a height between 30 and 40 feet with an equally wide canopy.
Their limbs are rather fragile, so if there are heavy winds, they're susceptible to breakage. Its Latin name is Salix.
Willows do well in USDA plant hardiness zones 4 through 9. Full sun to partial shade is appropriate for its growth and health. Its root system is shallow yet large, so keep that in mind. The willow does best when it's located in soil that's kept evenly moist. During periods of drought, ensure that the tree receives a sufficient amount of water.
Dreamy Aesthetic
Willow trees are simply magical in the landscape and have a great way of lightening up the overall feel of the area.
2 Live Plants
Click here to see more on Amazon.
3. Cypress
The cypress tree is a conifer that features short, feathery green needles. In the fall, the needles turn red or brown then drop. Its bark is reddish-brown and rough. The trees can reach an astounding 70 feet in height, so plan accordingly. Its Latin name is Taxodium.
While cypress trees are native to southern climates, they're adaptable in many other climates.
Cypress trees can grow in USDA plant hardiness zones 4 through 10. These types of trees are very suitable for wet areas. Light sandy or loamy soil is ideal. Cypress trees perform best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Tree Tunnel
Tree tunnels are a beautiful phenomenon that creates a cozy, intriguing, and safe feeling. The canopies overhead enclose the area and encourage wonder.
4. River Birch
The river birch grows relatively quickly, helping it rise in popularity. Its bark is unique with its curling appearance. The somewhat triangular leaves are glossy and green with a length between 2 and 3 inches. The typical height for river birch trees is between 40 and 70 feet in height. Its Latin name is Betula nigra.
As the name suggests, they naturally grow in wet areas. They're used to heavy, wet soils but can adapt to other types. River birch trees are hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 4 through 9. Full sun is ideal, but they can tolerate partial shade.
Water Companion
If you have an area in your landscape with water nearby, your river birch would love to be there.
Live 2-3 Foot Tall Tree
Click here to see more on Amazon.
5. Poplar
At maturity, the deciduous poplar tree can reach a height between 30 and 40 feet. Amazingly, it can grow up to 8 feet each year. Its triangular leaves are silvery green and measure between 3 and 6 inches long and 4 and 5 inches wide. Its Latin name is Populus.
This type of tree should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. The poplar tree is hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 3 through 9. The soil could be acidic or alkaline as well as moist.
Sentinel Trees
If you have plenty of space and sunlight, grow some mighty polar trees in rows for strong visual impact.
6. Black Maple
At maturity, the deciduous black maple can reach a height between 60 and 80 feet. You'll definitely enjoy fall color with this tree's leaves.
The bark can be grayish brown or grayish black. The leaves are 3-lobed and 4 to 6 inches long and wide. Its Latin name is Acer nigrum.
The black maple can grow in a wide variety of soil conditions, but most commonly in moist soils. Plant this maple in a spot that receives full sunlight. You can tap this tree to create syrup from its sap!
Vibrant Foliage
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Priyanka Chopra Jonas (@priyankachopra)
The black maple is a showstopper with its gorgeous vibrant foliage that's full of rich color from springtime to fall.
7. Serviceberry
The serviceberry tree shows off for 3 full seasons: snow white flowers in the spring, bright edible berries in the summer, and fiery colors in the fall. There are a few varieties of this tree, meaning their heights range from 4 feet to 40 feet.
Its Latin name is Amelanchier.
Serviceberry trees perform best in full sun and moist, well-draining, slightly acidic soils. The tree is hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 4 through 8, and even down to zone 2 sometimes.
Seasonal Intrigue
Springtime will definitely have this tree showing off its beautiful white flowers. Enjoy all the seasonal colors it provides.
8. American Hornbeam
The deciduous American hornbeam tree has a show of color on its leaves. The new leaves begin as a reddish-purple color, transition to deep green, then finish out in the fall with yellow and orangeish-red. At maturity, it reaches 20 to 30 feet in both height and width. Its Latin name is Carpinus caroliniana.
It's hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 3 through 9. While this tree performs best in full sun, it can tolerate some partial shade or even full shade areas. It does well in moist soils that are well-draining.
Lined Walkway
American hornbeams make an excellent choice for lining walkways.
9. Northern Catalpa
If you want a showy tree, look no further. The northern catalpa features white, showy flowers, large heart-shaped leaves, and a twisting trunk and branches. At maturity, this tree reaches between 40 and 60 feet in height. Its Latin name is Catalpa speciosa.
This tree is hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 4 through 8. Both full sun and partial shade are appropriate for this tree's health. It can thrive in just about any type of soil, too.
Showy Features
If you want a showy tree in your landscape, check out what this pair of northern catalpas can do.
Northern Catalpa Seedling
Click here to see more on Amazon.
10. Common Hackberry
The large, deciduous common hackberry features a beautiful light-colored wood with unique asymmetrical leaves. At maturity, this tree reaches a height between 30 and 50 feet. If you want a hardy tree, give this one a shot. Its Latin name is Celtis occidentalis.
The hackberry is hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 3 through 9. This tree prefers to grow in full sun, getting at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. It can grow in any type of soil and can even tolerate some drought and flooding conditions.
Tough Tree
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Priyanka Chopra Jonas (@priyankachopra)
This tough, hardy tree will do wonders for your landscape, lasting for many years to come.
11. Green Ash
The green ash makes for an excellent shade tree. At maturity, the green ash can reach a height between 50 and 60 feet with a spread around 25 feet. Its compound leaves measure 6 to 9 inches in length. They're shiny green then turn yellow in the fall. Its Latin name is Fraxinus pennsylvanica.
This tree prefers full sun and can withstand a plethora of soil conditions but it does prefer wet conditions.
The green ash is hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 2 through 9.
Shaded Yard
Consider the green ash to meet all your shaded yard dreams.
12. Sycamore
The sycamore tree has an interesting camouflage pattern on its bark. The gray and brown bark can peel off to reveal light grey or white wood underneath. These trees are massive, reaching heights between 75 and 100 feet. Its Latin name is Platanus occidentalis.
Sycamore trees prefer nutrient-rich soil that's moist and well-draining. It's hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 4 through 9. It does well in full sun to partial shade.
Single Stunner
Planting just one sycamore tree in your landscape can still turn quite a few heads.
13. Swamp White Oak
The swamp white all tree features interesting peeling bark with lustrous lobed leaves that are two-toned. You'll enjoy a wealth of fall color from this tree. At maturity, it can reach both height and width between 50 and 60 feet.
Its Latin name is Quercus bicolor.
This tree prefers soil that's well-draining, slightly acidic, and moist. It's hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 3 through 8. Plant the tree in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Healthy Appearance
As you can see, this type of tree looks great and shows off nice color and texture.
14. American Arborvitae
This lovely evergreen tree has a narrow, pyramid shape. They're tall, elegant, and provide lush green color to the landscape. It can grow to a height between 40 and 60 feet with a spread between 10 and 15 feet. Its Latin name is Thuja occidentalis.
The American arborvitae is hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 3 through 7. Ideally, it should get full sun exposure. It grows well in virtually any type of soil.
Privacy Screen
Planting a row of American arborvitae is a great way to create a nice, natural privacy screen.
5 Live Trees, 2-Inch Pot
Click here to see more on Amazon.
15. Lacebark Elm
The bark of a lacebark elm looks mottled, giving it a unique look. Its leaves are dark green and glossy, with a length of up to 2 inches. Enjoy the fall colors that it will show off. At maturity, the lacebark elm can reach a height between 40 and 50 feet and spread between 35 and 45 feet. Its Latin name is Ulmus parvifolia.
The lacebark elm is hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 5 through 9. It does well in either full sun or partial shade and can grow in any type of soil.
Ornamental Value
The growth and aesthetic of the lacebark elm can very well be used in the landscape as an ornamental feature.
Before you go, make sure to check out these other great garden guides:
8 Fastest Growing Pine Trees For Landscaping
16 Fast-Growing Evergreen Shade Trees
List of Trees for Wet Clay Soil 2022 [Updated]
Fine substrates are hard to work with in a garden as they don’t have good drainage properties and cannot efficiently circulate nutrients.
Krish Dulal, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia CommonsMarkedly fine substrates are some of the hardest types of soil to work with in a home garden. Apart from having poor drainage properties, they may be unable to provide an oxygenated environment for the efficient circulation of nutrients. Thus, many sensitive plants may struggle to survive when they are rooted in uniformly packed soil. Anoxia and prolonged water retention are major challenges that usually leave fine substrates bare and seemingly inhospitable to plants.
In wet, clay soil, the likelihood of root decay is heightened as moisture tends to become trapped in the compact particles. While many temperate herbs are unlikely to thrive in these poor conditions, there are some hardy trees that are especially suited to them. With adaptations for remaining anchored and for obtaining atmospheric oxygen, a few of these can even tolerate periodic floods.
The trickiest clay-based soils are those that remain waterlogged due to either their location in a garden or the presence of a permanent source of water.
Zones with this type of substrate can be converted into rain gardens or re-conditioned with the help of trees. As tree roots expand and become well-established in the packed soil, they help aerate the substrate and diversify its organic contents.
1) Bald cypress (Taxodium distichum)The bald cypress plays an important role in wetland systems, absorbing floodwaters and providing a nesting & breeding ground for wildlife. Matt Berger / CC BY 4.0
Native to the southeastern US
A remarkably adaptable species, the bald cypress is able to thrive in a wide range of soil types. Its roots can tolerate being partly or fully submerged in water, making it a common species in swampy zones throughout its native range. The horizontal roots of this tree’s shallow root system are equipped with pneumatophores, which are specialized organs for air transport and stability.
Valued for their rot-resistant hardwood, bald cypress trees play extremely important roles in wetland systems.
Apart from absorbing floodwaters and stabilizing the substrate, this phenomenal tree serves as nesting and breeding grounds for birds, fish, and amphibians. Its submerged structures, which can take up a spread of about 6 feet (1.8 meters), protect many aquatic animals.
As bald cypress trees are able to grow as tall as 120 feet (36.6 meters), they are often referred to as the “giants” of swamp systems. Their presence can significantly influence ecological structure in permanently wet stands. Hardy to USDA zones 4 – 10, they may struggle to colonize well-draining substrates where other trees may compete with their seedlings for nutrients and space.
2) River birch (Betula nigra)The river birch is a medium-sized tree that is fairly tolerant to acidic soils and excess water. the swamp ass / CC BY 4.0
Native to the eastern US
Also called the black birch or water birch, B. nigra is a fantastic tree for rain gardens and naturally moistened shorelines.
Its roots, particularly the segments situated close to the soil surface, are known for being highly absorptive. This heat-tolerant tree is found in swampy areas and floodplains, so it is usually able to thrive in the wet and compact substrates of rain gardens.
The root system of river birch is fairly shallow and expansive. Instead of growing deep into the substrate, it produces thick mats with largely horizontal roots restricted to the top 4 – 8 inches (10 – 20 cm) of soil. Within a single year, the roots of healthy birch trees can double in density. Fortunately, though they may take advantage of cracks in compromised water lines, they are not known for being invasive.
In wet, clay soils, this medium-sized tree is more likely to develop surface roots. It relies on moving water to disperse most of its seeds, which can quickly germinate in muddy substrates. Distinguished by its scaly and furrowed bark, it can grow to about 100 feet (30 meters) tall in optimal conditions. Compared to other hardwood trees within its native range, it is more tolerant of acidic soils and excess water.
3) Black maple (Acer nigrum)Black maples can thrive in a wider range of conditions compared to their close cousin, the sugar maple. Nate Martineau / CC BY 4.0
Native to midwestern to eastern North America
The black maple can be cultivated in sandy to clay-based substrates as its root system is able to adjust its growth pattern to soil type. In moderately wet, clay-based soils, particularly those which are close to streams or located in floodplains, it tends to produce more surface roots. In contrast, specimens in drier substrates may develop a deeper taproot system.
Compared to their close cousin (sugar maple or A. saccharum) with which it is often confused, the black maple is able to thrive in a wider range of environment types. It is distinguished by a furrowed, dark bark and three-lobed leaves, which arise from relatively thick petioles. In fall, the leaves turn into a brilliant shade of yellow-orange, after which they drop from the spectacular canopy.
Mature black maple trees may measure as much as 110 feet (34 meters) tall. They grow best when their roots are provided with consistent and even moisture. They can persist in areas with full sun to partial shade. Like the more common maple trees, this one can likewise be tapped for its distinctly sweet sap. In optimal conditions, it is fairly resistant to pests and diseases.
4) Northern white cedar (Thuja occidentalis)The northern white cedar has a preference for wet soil and its wood is rot-resistant. Reed Nelson / CC BY 4.0
Native to eastern North America
The northern white cedar is a stunning, shade-tolerant, and evergreen member of the cypress family (Cupressaceae). Due to its attractive features and ease of care, it is often cultivated as an ornamental tree in temperate zones. With a trunk growing to a maximum height of just 49 feet (15 meters) tall, it is considered a medium-sized tree. In areas where water and nutrients are scarce, its shoot may develop in a stunted manner.
The root system of northern white cedar is able to expand in moist, clay-based soils due to its naturally shallow nature. Individual roots tend to lengthen in a horizontal manner close to the soil surface, where they are less likely to suffer from anoxic conditions. This type of root system allows this species to colonize sloping areas and rocky cliffs, where water and nutrients may be trapped in crevices. It also helps stabilize the substrate along shorelines.
Due to its preference for wet soil, this tree may be referred to as the swamp white cedar. Its wood is durable and rot-resistant, making it highly prized as a type of lumber for home exteriors. Its highest productivity rates are observed in sites with rich organic content and access to clean streams.
5) Common hackberry (Celtis occidentalis)Common hackberry trees produce edible fruits that are important for small mammals and endemic birds throughout their native range.
Tamberly Conway / CC BY 4.0Native to North America
Although the common hackberry performs best in well-draining substrates, its mature specimens are able to tolerate conditions in gardens with a predominantly clay-based substrate. This is due to the variable nature of its root system. In dry areas, it can develop a strong taproot. In consistently moist areas, it produces a rapidly spreading and shallow root system instead.
If your garden’s substrates are slightly alkaline, you should definitely consider growing this tree. It can easily spread in consistently moist soils with pH levels of 6.0 – 8.0 or slightly higher in zones with full to partial sun exposure. When the roots are exposed to dry substrates, this tree may exhibit stress by dropping a fair amount of its leaves outside of fall or winter.
A long-lived and beneficial hardwood species, the common hackberry can be grown in stands to serve as a natural windbreaker along exposed highways. Its edible fruits are important for small mammals and many endemic birds throughout its native range.
It is exceptional as a landscape tree because of its highly-textured bark and heavy canopy.
6) Green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica)Green ash can often be found growing along streambanks and the edges of moist woodland. Dave Richardson / CC BY 4.0
Native to central and eastern North America
Like other ash trees of the Fraxinus genus, green ash favors moist to wet conditions in a wide range of substrate types. As it is frequently found growing along the edges of moist woodlands and along the banks of streams, it is also referred to as water ash. Among its congeners in the US, it has the most widespread distribution and is perhaps the fastest grower.
Green ash often forms mixed stands with other water-loving trees, such as those in the maple and willow families. Due to its rapid growth rate, it can be cultivated as a shade tree. On average, mature specimens may measure up to 80 feet (24 meters) tall and have trunks that are about 24 inches (61 cm) wide.(87).jpg)
Their compound leaves are composed of leaflets with distinctly serrated margins. Bright green, they become golden-yellow in fall.
Throughout its native range, green ash is an important food source for many animals in riparian zones. Even its fallen leaves can sustain the growth of juvenile fish, amphibians, and other detritivores in freshwater features. As the tree has minimal concentrations of tannins, both its leaves and branches are safer for amphibious herbivores and are less likely to discolor small bodies of water.
7) Red spruce (Picea rubens)In the wild, red spruces are usually found in the swampy areas of wetland forests. Charlie Hohn / CC BY 4.0
Native to eastern North America
A tree that favors moist climates in cool, temperate zones, the red spruce is a perennial conifer with many uses. Though it thrives in well-draining substrates with a primarily sandy or loamy base, it is able to tolerate slightly clay-like and acidic soils.
Its roots, which are usually shallow, fibrous, and finely branched, can subsist in low-nutrient conditions.
With wild stands found in the swampy areas of wetland forests, this hardy tree is an ideal choice for areas where other trees may struggle to become established due to excess moisture. It has a high tolerance for shade, so its seedlings can usually survive alongside larger trees. They can serve as an important part of the understory in mature forests because it takes them decades to reach their full size.
Note that, despite this species’ tolerance for wetland conditions, it is formally categorized as a facultative upland tree. This goes to show how hardy it is in the face of various conditions and how versatile it can be as an addition to landscapes with mixed substrates. Highly adaptable in the transitional zones between different biomes, it is an ecologically important species.
8) Northern catalpa (Catalpa speciosa)The northern catalpa is a rapid grower and can tolerate occasional flooding.
emerlee / CC BY 4.0Native to the midwestern US
A showy tree with a knack for developing invasive roots, the northern catalpa favors moist to wet substrates. Able to grow extensively, its roots can rapidly inch toward sources of water, such as swimming pools and sewer lines. In some cases, they may be aggressive enough to infiltrate structures and cause significant damage. For this reason, this species should be planted at least 50 feet (15 meters) away from permanent water features.
As a plant for rain gardens with troublesome substrates, however, northern catalpa may be the right choice. Its tolerance for occasional floods and periodic droughts highlights its hardiness and versatility. It’s all too easy to underestimate this rapid grower! Apart from its capacity to produce new plants from stem fragments, it can spread quickly by self-seeding.
Some interesting attributes of the northern catalpa include large, heart-shaped leaves, a ridged bark, and eye-catching inflorescences of trumpet-shaped blooms.
Able to grow practically anywhere throughout its native range, it is a recipient of the RHS Award of Garden Merit. To accentuate its attractive features, make sure to situate it under full sun.
9) Swamp white oak (Quercus bicolor)Despite their preference for moist substrates, swamp white oaks can still survive periods of drought. Jeff Clark / CC BY 4.0
Native to eastern and central North America
The swamp white oak is a medium-sized, lowland tree. Fairly long-lived and hardy, it can persist in a wide range of soil types and moisture levels. The tallest of its kind may measure as much as 95 feet (29 meters) tall and boast lifespans of two centuries or more. Distinguished by a furrowed bark and ovoid foliage, it resembles the white oak (Q. alba).
The swamp white oak is naturally found in moist woodlands alongside other water-loving maple, ash, elm, and oak trees. Its stands may occur along the margins of freshwater bodies, like lakes, ponds, and streams.
Although its roots can tolerate occasional exposure to excess moisture, they may suffer under permanently flooded conditions. They can usually survive in heavy or clay-based soils with slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH levels.
Though they prefer moist substrates, healthy swamp white oak trees may even survive through periodic droughts. Their best features are brought out by full sun exposure and frequent irrigation. As a tree that produces acorns, it is highly important to many birds and mammals. Its acorns drop in fall and may attract wildlife to your garden.
10) Black tupelo (Nyssa sylvatica)The black tupelo has an extensive native range and can be found in a variety of substrates. Mason Heberling / CC BY 4.0
Native to eastern North America and northern Mexico
Commonly called black tupelo, sour gum, or black gum, N. sylvatica has a fairly extensive natural range. While it does have stands in upland areas, it is also found in bottom wetlands and coastal plains.
Some of its healthiest specimens are rooted in clay-based and loamy substrates. Those that grow in dry substrates seldom produce large logs.
Often cultivated as an ornamental shade tree in private gardens, the black tupelo grows to a manageable height of about 80 feet (24 meters). Its young trunks tend to appear flaky, whereas its mature trunks are distinctly furrowed. Deciduous, its lustrous and wavy-edged leaves become purple to deep-red in fall. Its clusters of flowers, which attract many pollinators, arise at the tips of lengthy stalks.
In wet areas, the black tupelo usually develops a distinct taproot, from which a swollen trunk arises. The point at which the trunk begins to narrow is usually related to the water level. In permanently flooded habitats, such as deep swamps, the swamp tupelo (N. sylvatica var. biflora) can be quite dominant due to its tolerance for submersion.
What to plant on clay soil
When landscaping and developing a site, we often encounter soil imperfections.
The clay composition of the soil leads many gardeners and gardeners to despair and despair. Clay soil is very difficult to work and unsuitable for planting a huge number of plants. The earth has a very dense structure: it does not let water through, it is poorly ventilated, it freezes in winter and does not warm up well in summer. Heavy soil is mostly clay and contains a small amount of sand. If organic matter gets into the soil, then the lack of air does not allow the decomposition process to take place actively. After rains, a hard crust forms on the surface of the clay soil, which blocks the access of oxygen, thus, it gradually dries up and becomes unsuitable for planting. nine0003
Clay soil, structure determination
A small test will help you determine the type of soil. A small amount of soil, wet it, and roll a small sausage in your hands. When dry, cracks in the sausage will indicate loamy soil, the absence of cracks will indicate clay soil. The clay type of soil has little or no structure at all.
During the rainy season, it is not amenable to processing and loosening. The constant lack of water or its excess negatively affects the growth and development of plants. The acidity of clay soil can be different. nine0003
- Acidic soil occurs in places where there is very high humidity. In such a place grows sedge, horsetail, plantain.
- Nettle and quinoa grow on neutral soil.
- Alkaline soil is dense and has a high salt content. Mullein, wormwood, and yarrow often grow on such soil.
Thus, knowing the characteristics of the soil in your area, you can adjust its structure and improve its composition. This is of course a very time-consuming and costly procedure, the result of which will be a stable, high-quality crop and an abundance of crops grown on it. nine0003
Fruit trees and berry bushes growing on clay soil
When choosing plantings, be sure to consider what type of clay soil you have. Clay soil is not as hopeless as it might seem at first.
With the improvement of the soil structure, it is possible to plant seedlings of some moisture-loving, fruit trees.
- Apple, chokeberry, pear, plum, quince, cherry, fig, hawthorn grow well and yield richly on clay soil with good drainage. To do this, the soil from the planting pits is removed and changed to a nutrient soil mixture. Drainage is laid in the planting pits. A special nutrient composition is being prepared, consisting of peat, humus, sand, tree bark and garden soil. nine0010
- Berry bushes: currants, blackberries, raspberries - can grow and delight with an abundance of harvest when organics are added to clay soil. To create favorable conditions, apply 15 kg of organic fertilizer per square meter. If desired, humus and peat can be added to the topsoil, such a composition is favorable for growing strawberries and strawberries.
Ornamental trees and flower crops that prefer clay soil
Many types of trees love clay soil, plant ornamental plum, viburnum, Norway maple, gray alder, willow, oak.
Unpretentious, moisture-loving plants will help make the site more attractive. nine0003
Flower crops that grow well in clay soils can bring life to an otherwise unsightly area. Violets, roses, lilies, verge, phloxes grow very well on clay, and with proper fertilization, delightful, abundantly flowering flower beds and flower beds grow. Irises, marigolds, petunias, peonies, geraniums, tradescantia tolerate dense clay soil well. Anemones, coreopsis, forget-me-nots, and hostas thrive in moist, heavy soil.
You may not be limited to planting only this group of plants. Add nutritious soil to clay soil, then it will be possible to grow many exotic, ornamental plants. When planting such plants, rotted humus is added to the planting pits. The structure of the land is improving and it becomes possible to grow barberry, spirea, mock orange, astilbe Arends, pink alcea. nine0003
Important! To grow vegetables in clay soil, you need to add 0.5-1 bucket of sand and 0.5 bucket of humus for each square meter when digging.
Such soil is suitable for growing cabbages, beets, beans, peas, potatoes, peonies and some varieties of roses.
Improvement of the soil structure with fertilizers
You can not limit yourself to applying fertilizers to the hole, but to carry out a fundamental change in the composition of the soil throughout the clay area. To improve the quality of the soil, it is necessary to carry out a number of preparatory measures. nine0003
- Level the area, there will be stagnant water in the lowlands and irregularities, make drains or bends.
- Before the onset of frost, dig the clay area without breaking large lumps.
- In the spring this area needs to be dug up again. Clay soil on the site can only be improved by adding fertilizers. The most commonly used compost, peat, humus, manure. When digging the soil in the spring, add fertilizer and lime. Fertilizer makes the soil loose, and lime will remove acidity. For each square meter, add 1-2 buckets of humus or peat.
nine0010
When using manure, be careful, fresh manure will not be able to improve the quality of the soil, because the decomposition processes in the clay do not occur, try to apply only well-rotted manure.
If the soil is very heavy and difficult to cultivate, you can add finely crushed brick and crushed bark.
Modifying clay soil with sawdust
Sawdust helps to make clay soil loose and breathable. Sawdust is added when digging up the site at the rate of 1 bucket per square meter. It is better to use sawdust used for bedding for livestock, they will not pull nitrogen out of the soil when they rot. If this is not possible, then take sawdust moistened with a 1.5% urea solution. They will increase the flow of air and will not reduce the fertile qualities of clay soil. nine0003
Increasing soil fertility with green manure plants
Green manure plants enrich the soil with nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium and loosen the soil. The uniqueness of plants is that they can increase the fertility of a large area without significant costs.
When growing green manure in one place for about 3 years, the soil structure improves significantly and becomes suitable for the growth of many vegetable crops. Some plants can be sown for a short time, during this period the soil receives nutrition and breathability. nine0003
- Alfalfa can be used as a fodder plant. Powerful roots grow to a depth of 3 meters, they loosen the soil and enrich it with phosphorus and nitrogen.
- Peas are often planted as a separate planting, or together with potatoes, under trees. Growing peas has a fruitful effect on heavy soil types, the plant saturates the soil with nitrogen, phosphorus and organic matter.
- Sweet clover copes well with nematodes and actively accumulates nitrogen in the soil. The quality of the soil after the growth of sweet clover is actively improving. nine0010
- Buckwheat has a deep, branched root system, growing, it loosens the clay soil and accumulates nitrogen, saturates it with fluorine and calcium.
- White mustard has the ability to suppress weeds, and also contributes to the destruction of the wireworm. Mustard roots grow in the ground to a depth of 1 meter. The soil is not only enriched, but also loosened, receives an additional supply of oxygen. Mustard is recommended to be sown on clay soils, a month before planting potatoes. After cutting the green mass, the roots rot in just 10-15 days. nine0010
- Meadow clover is a good nitrogen enricher. The plant can grow well near trees and around shrubs.
After harvest, rye or phacelia can be sown in the garden. These plants will perfectly cope with loosening the soil, significantly improve its composition.
Clay, heavy soil * not a sentence. Try to use the most suitable way for you to enrich your site with an abundance of ornamental, fruit and vegetable crops. You can choose plants that love clay soils, or you can change the soil structure yourself and make it more fertile and suitable for growing exotic plants.
Any site can be transformed and become picturesque! nine0003
Woody plants for heavy clay soil
Many crops can be grown on damp, marshy soils. Trees are the hardest to tame. It seems to have taken root, it grows and pleases. But suddenly, for no reason at all, it starts to dry, shed its leaves, and after winter it disappears completely. The reason is that the roots have reached the dead gley layer with stagnant water. Most garden trees will not grow in these conditions, so you can only afford a very limited selection of species. nine0003
On soils with short-term waterlogging, where there is no long-term moisture stagnation, and, accordingly, a dead gley layer, many trees and shrubs adapt well. When choosing trees, it is important to correctly assess the ecological features of the breed - frost resistance, shade tolerance, exactingness in soil fertility and acidity.
Coniferous
- Spruce could with good reason become a symbol of the North-West - it is so frost-resistant and unpretentious to growing conditions.
Almost all spruces grow in waterlogged conditions, but not all of its cultivars. The varietal variety of fir trees for ornamental gardening is great, and if you solve the problem of stagnant water, then almost any Christmas tree will become a welcome guest in your garden. On heavy, moist clay soil, it will not develop as luxuriously as on fertile land. But this factor can be turned into a plus by getting a compact plant shape. (More about spruce) - Siberian larch (Larix sibirica) - undemanding to soils, grows successfully on calcareous, podzolic soils, chernozems, better - on loams, poorly - on sands. The soil mixture consists of leafy soil, peat and sand (3:2:1). Drainage only on heavy clays: broken brick with a layer of 20 cm. European larch (L. decidua) and Japanese larch (L. Kaempferi) have many compact decorative forms that are absolutely stable in our climatic conditions. (More about larch)
- Juniperus (Juniperus) - generally not demanding on fertility, but requires drainage and does not respond well to soil compaction.
On heavy clays, the soil thaws late, and unfavorable conditions are created that contribute to the spring “burning”. It may not happen in the first or second year, but it will happen. Deciding to plant junipers in such conditions, you need to take care of shading your pets from the scorching spring sun. (More about juniper) - Fir (Abies) - all firs are demanding on the richness, moisture and drainage of the soil. On damp soils forms a superficial root system. Drainage is required on heavy soils. Balsam fir (Abies balsamea) - up to 8 m high, grows very slowly, frost-resistant and shade-tolerant. Needles with two blue stripes. Prefers acidic soils. It has a dwarf form 'Nana' up to 50 cm high. Korean fir (Abies koreana) is a slow-growing tree up to 10 m high. The needles are bright green, whitish below. Violet cones are very decorative, which appear already on young plants. The soil likes acidic, but quite fertile. Varieties and cultivars are very decorative. Siberian fir (Abies sibirica) is the most famous representative of the genus, winter-hardy, shade-tolerant, starts growing early in spring and can be damaged by late spring frosts.
(More about fir) - Pine (Pinus). Although pines are more associated with dunes and dry forests, some of them still do not disdain wet soils and even swamps. Weymouth mountain pine (Pinus monticola) is a tree up to 30 m high, prefers damp open places. The needles are bluish-green with long needles. Cones adorn the tree due to their large size. Siberian cedar pine (Pinus sibirica) is very decorative due to its powerful dense crown. It grows relatively slowly. Moisture-loving and shade-tolerant, tolerates moderate excess moisture, grows best on loamy moist soils. (More about pine)
- Thuja occidentalis (Thuja occidentalis) - a tree 12–20 m high, rarely a shrub. The crown is pyramidal or ovoid, often descending to the ground. Grows along low-lying river banks, swamps, on moist fertile loams. Winter-hardy, shade-tolerant, but it develops better and is more durable in good light. It has many garden forms that differ in the nature of growth, color and shape of the needles.
(More about thuja)
Deciduous trees
- Birch. In the forest landscapes of the Northwest, there are 2 types of birch: drooping (or warty) birch (Betula pendula) - with branches hanging down, and downy birch (Betula pubescens) - with shorter, upward directed branches and white bark even at the base of the trunk. B. fluffy is more adapted to harsh climatic conditions, puts up with high soil moisture, often grows in damp forests, along the outskirts of swamps, and lake shores. In silver birch, there are decorative forms and varieties with cut leaves, purple color. Very beautiful grafted forms. All birches contribute to the drainage of the site, they draw water from the soil like pumps. (More about birch)
- Willow (Salix). All willows are photophilous, grow quickly, need sufficient air and soil moisture, and tolerate shearing well. They have many decorative advantages: bright shoots, beautiful and abundant leaves, various crown shapes.
A very interesting group of dwarf and low-growing willows, which are suitable for rock gardens, stony gardens, as small groups just against the background of the lawn or in combination with other low and tall shrubs. For these willows on heavy clays, drainage is required. (More about willow) - Red maple (Acer rubrum) is one of the few types of maples that tolerate excessive moisture and even stagnant water. An ornamental tree up to 20 m high with a large tent-shaped crown. The leaves are three-five-lobed, up to 10 cm long, reddish-green when blooming, dark green above, glabrous, shiny, bluish or whitish below, on red petioles, in autumn they acquire an amazing color: the upper side becomes orange, red or purple, the lower - pinkish-silver. Shade-tolerant. Unpretentious, but demanding on soil moisture, as well as on air humidity. It has several decorative forms: columnar, spherical, three-lobed, Drummond. (More about maple)
- Alder (Alnus) is predominantly moisture-loving, but not particularly durable.
Refers to soil-improving rocks. It is of interest for the design of the banks of large reservoirs, in groups in parks with soils moist from close groundwater. The speed of growth and the long preservation of green foliage in autumn are valuable properties of alder. Medvedki do not like alder very much, and its branches are stuck into the ground where this pest is seen. The presence of wild alder indicates the presence of groundwater. Black alder (Alnus glutinosa) has a fairly large variety of species and forms that differ in the shape of the crown and the shape and color of the leaves as completely different plants. (More about alder) - Manchurian walnut (Juglans mandshurica) is a tall tree up to 25 m tall with openwork spreading crown. The leaves are very large up to 1.25 m. It is distinguished by a friendly leaf fall and the shortest growing season. Easily propagated by freshly harvested seeds. (More about the nut)
- Bird cherry (Padus avium) is a tree up to 15 m high, growing on fertile soils with excessive flowing moisture, photophilous.
In May, it blooms with hanging white racemes, the aroma of which fills all the surroundings. Everyone knows black edible fruits. It has a number of decorative forms: weeping; variegated, with yellow and white-variegated leaves; terry; rosaceous - with pink flowers; as well as yellow-fruited. (More about bird cherry)
Shrubs
- Aronia melanocarpa grows in swamps and lowland forests, sometimes on more drained soils, pebbles of sea coasts. Often called "chokeberry", from which it differs in the shape of the leaves. A deciduous shrub up to 3 m high.The leaves turn bright red-purple in autumn. The flowers are white, rarely pinkish, fragrant, reminiscent of mountain ash. The fruits are round, black-purple with a bluish bloom, shiny, up to 1 cm, quite juicy, edible, somewhat astringent in taste. Hybrids of aronia chokeberry with mountain ash are very interesting. (More about chokeberry)
- Canadian elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) is a fast growing, shade-tolerant ornamental shrub up to 3 meters tall.
Grows well on acidic loamy soil with close standing groundwater. It has several decorative forms. (More about elderberry) - Red elder (Sambucus racemosa) grows as a shrub or small tree. The flowers are green-yellow, the berries are bright red, the leaves and branches have an unpleasant odor. It is very beautiful during the fruiting period, especially when grown in standard form. More often decorative forms are used (nana, plumosa, tenuifolia, purpurea, flavescens). (More about elderberry)
- Marsh myrtle (Myrica gale) is found in wet meadows and grassy marshes in coastal areas. Upright deciduous shrub up to 1.5 m in height. Leaves dark, narrow, up to 6 cm long. Blooms before leafing out. Male and female catkins are located on different plants. Mature fruits are hidden among brown scales, like in a cone, up to 1 cm long.
- Tree hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens) is a sprawling shrub up to 1.5 m high.The flowers are greenish or creamy white, collected in corymbose inflorescences, blooms in July-August.
In winter, shelter is recommended, but after partial freezing and pruning, it quickly grows back, blooming in the same year. Prefers fertile, moist soils and protected areas. (More about hydrangea) - Panicled hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata) is a spectacular shrub with rare branching, up to 2 m high, large, cone-shaped, white-pink inflorescences, blooms in July-September. Frost-resistant species, demanding on soil fertility, tolerates shading. It has many varieties of different flowering periods. (More about hydrangea)
- Daphne (wolfberry) deadly (Daphne mezereum). Rarely exceeds 1 m in height. Remarkable for its very early colorful flowering. The flowers are small, very fragrant, in bunches of 2–5 or solitary, sitting directly on the trunk, lilac-pink or pink-lilac in color. Daphne grows slowly, but is hardy. Decorative form with white flowers (f. alba) grows faster. Grows well in semi-shaded places. At the end of summer, the branches are covered with bright red, and in the Alba form with yellow shiny berries.
All parts of the plant are poisonous. (More about Daphne) - White Derain (Cornus alba) is a large sprawling shrub up to 3 m high with raspberry shoots, tolerates flooding, cuts well. It has decorative forms and varieties with bordered leaves. It is better to plant in a lit place to achieve a spectacular foliage color. Good for creating undergrowth, hedges, can be grown in standard form. (More about derain)
- Irga spiky (Amelanchier spicata) - deciduous shrub up to 5 m tall, characterized by rapid growth and winter hardiness, beautiful flowering and abundant fruiting. Easy to cut. In summer, dark green foliage turns bright orange-red in autumn. (More about irga)
- Kalina (Viburnum). Common viburnum (V. opulus), viburnum (V. lantana) and Canadian viburnum (V. lentago) are most often grown, but viburnum Sargent (V. sargentii) is most suitable for waterlogged areas. It is undemanding to the soil, prefers low places with running water. Shade-tolerant, winter-hardy.
A good ornamental shrub, especially spectacular at the time of flowering and fruiting, in single and group plantings, along the banks of reservoirs. Withstands frosts down to -30 ° C, prefers sunny places, but also tolerates partial shade. Like common viburnum, a good honey plant has similar healing qualities. It is very beautiful not only during flowering, but also in autumn, when the leaves are painted in bright scarlet tones. (More about viburnum) - Cotoneaster lucidus (Cotoneaster lucidus) is one of the best shrubs for making clipped hedges. Decorative and pink flowers, collected in loose corymbose inflorescences, and black shiny fruits that remain on the bushes until late autumn. (More about cotoneaster)
- Rough rose (Rosa rugosa), this species is easily recognizable by wrinkled leaves. Lilac large non-double flowers open all summer on the shoots of the current year and on last year's shoots. By the end of summer, buds, flowers and ripened fruits can be observed on the bushes.
There are white, pink and terry forms. Good in single planting, in groups and in hedges. (More about the rose) - Fieldfare (Sorbaria sorbifolia) is a shrub up to 3 m tall with rowan-like leaves. Vegetates one of the first, blooms profusely within a month. Easily withstands a haircut. Gives abundant root offspring, forming dense thickets. (More about fieldfare)
- Black currant (Ribes nigrum) in addition to the harvest has a number of irreplaceable decorative qualities: fast growth, frost resistance, late leaf fall. Good for border and single plantings. There are varieties with a compact crown, with dark green glossy dense leaves, as well as split-leaved, variegated and marbled forms. (More about blackcurrant)
Lianas
- Petiole hydrangea (Hydrangea petiolaris) is a liana up to 20 m high.In the first years after planting, it builds up the root system and the growth is weak, then the shoots grow faster. Blooms in July-August with white flowers.
Shade-tolerant, demanding on soil fertility, prefers moist loams. Winter hardiness is average, so shelter from cold winds and frost is required. (More about petiole hydrangea) - Parthenocissus quinquefolia is a large climbing liana up to 15–20 m, a common plant in moist forests and shrubs on moist rich soils. The leaves are compound, palmate. Grows very fast, shade tolerant. It is very frost-resistant, without shelter it can develop north of St. Petersburg, grows on any soil, tolerates city conditions well. (More on girlish grapes)
- Round-leaved tree plier (Celastrus orbiculata) is an elegant liana with a highly branched crown up to 12 m high. The flowers are inconspicuous greenish, bright yellow fruits remain on the plant all winter. Whiplash tree pliers (Celastrus flagellaris) is a deciduous vine that rises to a height of 10 m, rarely creeping, with easily rooting shoots. The leaves are light green, with a finely serrated edge. Stipules in the form of thorns bent downwards, with the help of which the vine clings to the bark of trees or the ground.
Learn more
