This Forum will close on Wednesday 27 March, 2024. Please refer to the announcement on the Discussions page for further detail.
North facing drive plant ideas and Skimmia questions
Hi We have a smallish section in front drive that is bare at the moment. Section is in front of house wall so gets very little sun. I had thought f putting couple of skimmia and baux balls. However I have just found that our clay soil is alkaline (did a test using a kit). So few questions 1.my local garden centre said I can still grow skimmia but need to dig a hole big enough for skimmia roots and then put ericaceous compost in the hole as well as around it after planting. Is this likely to work for one or two skimmia plants? 2. Any after treatment that I can apply to help with skimmia in alkaline soil to prevent possible yellowing of leaves. 3. Any other suggestions please if this doesn't work. I was hoping to get something with year around interest but not too big so as to start blocking light coming through living room window. I have couple of acer in pots but obviously they won't have year round interest.
0
Posts
Xyz, add plenty of organic matter and some iron sulfate to the soil plus grit. That should do the job initially. It may need additional ammonia based fertiliser over time if it starts to yellow.
Xyz I mean manure. Verdun has suggested some good alternatives so it's your decision.
I'm inclined to agree with Verd. Far easier to go with what you have. Sarcococca is an ideal choice. Sickly looking Skimmias are pretty unattractive.
You could add some daffs and snowdrops for this time of year too - undemanding, and will give you something cheery to look at on your way in and out. Daffs are quite happy with some shade and snowdrops thrive in it. Some varieties of daff - 'Cheerfulness' for instance, have good scent too
I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
I meant buxus balls but auto correct on mobile didn't like it.
On with my hunt to find solutions for alkaline soil..