I have seen some beautiful camellias in the local area. I bought a device to test the soil but I’m not sure it’s very accurate. The soil in the bed is a heavy clay, not like the chalky soil in the back garden. I’m adding ericaceous compost at the moment. I’ve got some well rotted manure should I add some of that too? I’ve almost managed to clear all the slate now.
Yes - the manure is the best conditioner for the soil If there are Camellias growing nearby, those shrubs should be fine, but if you also have chalky soil in your garden, it's worth checking the pH of the border. You'd need to wait until the soil settles a bit first, as you've been adding ericaceous compost. If the soil isn't suitable, it's not really worth adding that though. You'd have to continually add it to make any difference long term in a border.
It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....
I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
Thank you for taking the time to reply. It’s been very helpful. The soil was almost unworkable but I’ve planted everything now and tomorrow I’ll put the slate back on top. I guess if anything is not happy there I’ll take it out and find a new home for it. Hopefully it will be fine and I will post an update with photos of my lovely new border! Thanks again all.
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If there are Camellias growing nearby, those shrubs should be fine, but if you also have chalky soil in your garden, it's worth checking the pH of the border. You'd need to wait until the soil settles a bit first, as you've been adding ericaceous compost.
If the soil isn't suitable, it's not really worth adding that though. You'd have to continually add it to make any difference long term in a border.
I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...