I've been adding compost to my sandy soil for 30 years and it's still more well-drained than moist unless it rains every few days. Erigeron, oriental poppies and leucanthemum grow fine in it, but probably not as lush as they would be if it was more moisture-retentive.
Doncaster, South Yorkshire. Soil type: sandy, well-drained
Judith159, if they are all in a dried up tangled mess, then cut them back, they should put on growth very soon. On more rich loamy soils, they can normally retain their leaves and form a mound of lush evergreen leaves. If they are like that, then I would leave them alone.
About the original post about labels, and RHS advice, I would say that it is best to take it as a pinch of salt. You will learn more from visiting parks, gardens etc. See how the same plant grows in a variety of situations. I tend to be more interested in other people's soil conditions, and then I check out the plant.
I agree Fire, I bought a tray of dianthus, from B& Q, says plant in full shade, well I know they want as much sun as possible, wrote and told them this, enclosed the instructions, they didnt bother to reply, I notice this with suppliers who dont like what you write. Its not going to remain moist if it drains well, definitely dont see how sandy soil can come under this decreiption, I have friends in Suffolk with sandy soil, complaining that the water just dissapears, and is a nightmare to keep anything well watered.
I would say I have free draining moist soil. It's a combination of being close to mountains (slope and stony soil) and a very wet area. After adding organic matter, it's a good soil for many plants (and acidic as a bonus).
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Last edited: 24 June 2017 12:44:12
About the original post about labels, and RHS advice, I would say that it is best to take it as a pinch of salt. You will learn more from visiting parks, gardens etc. See how the same plant grows in a variety of situations. I tend to be more interested in other people's soil conditions, and then I check out the plant.