Types of Flowers in Certain Soils

Your soil type can affect your flower development.

There are many types of soils across the United States, with three of the most common being sandy loam, sandy or clay. Different flowers require different soil properties, although some grow in all and you can enhance soils with organic matter and other materials.

Loamy and Sandy Loam Soils

Most flowers and plants prefer loam or sandy loam soils. Loam soils have a combination of clay, sand and silt, creating a well-draining soil for plants.

Clay Soils

Clay soils are hard, and do not drain well. This creates problems including limiting root growth or pooling water. Clay-loving flowers and ornamentals include Arizona fescue, a decorative grass.

Sandy Soils

If you have sandy soil, consider planting a yucca plant. Yucca plants produce a tall, whitish flower that towers over a bunch of thick, grass-like leaves.

Improving Soil Quality

If you have heavy clay soil, consider mixing in organic matter and sand to increase the draining potential. Collect soil samples and have them tested to tell you which nutrients are missing. Add the appropriate fertilizers and organic matters to balance your soil's nutrients.

References

• Colorado State University Extension: Ornamental Grasses
• University of Nebraska Lincoln Extension in Lancaster County: "Flowers for Hot, Dry Conditions"; Don Janssen, Extension Educator; July, 2006

Resources

• University of Kentucky: Introduction to Plant Identification: Annual Flowers
• Virginia Cooperative Extension: Selecting Landscape Plants: Ground Covers