is it bad to create a garden in soil that is mixed with rocks?
Image by USFS Region 5
Three volunteers having a great day mixing soils and compost to fill the garden beds in the Yreka Community Gardens.
Question by ihavemanyquestions: is it bad to create a garden in soil that is mixed with rocks?
im trying to make a garden but right now there are all these rocks in the soil so im trying to sift through without much success. any ideas on how to get rid of the rocks easily, or just tell me if its okay to create a garden with these conditions. thanks!
What do you think? Answer below!
9 Responses to is it bad to create a garden in soil that is mixed with rocks?
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no
techdeck_liton
February 12, 2012 at 4:40 pm
take a grating tool and that will remove most of the large rocks quickly without a lot of hassle
KungShoe
February 12, 2012 at 5:34 pm
Well we grow rocks here in Central OR. You just have to persevere and start getting those rocks out, the large ones use for landscaping.
At least you will know you have good drainage, I would buy some good soil to add when planting
Another way to go: I bought some Cherry Logs and made raised beds
Spam
February 12, 2012 at 5:44 pm
there is a whole class of gardens called rock gardens and the rocks add to the charm of the garden. The contrast of the soft, colorful plants with the hard rocks makes a nice look. I have a part of my yard that is old river bed. As I am tilling the soil I take the rocks and make natural borders with them.
jautomatic
February 12, 2012 at 6:39 pm
It depends on where you live and how big the rocks are and how many rocks are present, and then ultimately what type of garden you are wanting to plant.
You could plant a rock garden!
http://www.google.com/search?q=rock+gardens&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&sourceid=ie7&rlz=1I7GWYA
The best gardens usually come from working with what your land provides you with.
Good luck!
earthlover7
February 12, 2012 at 7:06 pm
Depends on what you want to grow.
Root crops: carrots, onions, potatoes, beets, radishes, etc. may grow slightly deformed as they work around the rocks. Crops which only need adequate soil for roots should be fine. Herbs would be good too and the rocks (depending on size and shape) can add visual interest to your garden.
I would, however, continue to work the soil and remove as many rocks as possible. Soil has finer particles to ensure healthier roots, holds moisture better than rocks, may stabilize roots against wind, can accommodate staking better, and does not hurt the knees when tending to your veggies.
Good luck.
amesr_57
February 12, 2012 at 7:48 pm
no it isnt bad especially if you are planting plants that like rocky soil
weather
February 12, 2012 at 8:20 pm
Many plants like very free draining conditions and this you can provide with your rocky soil. Why not create an alpine garden?
Look at this link for inspiration. Obviously you will need to check what is hardy for your region.
http://www.gapphotos.com/displaylightbox.asp?c=26&l=690&g=true
greenfingers
February 12, 2012 at 9:09 pm
happy birthday =)!
bree=)
February 12, 2012 at 9:15 pm