Loam

The mixture every other soil description is measured against: holds a shape when squeezed and crumbles when prodded. Most gardens are somewhere on the way to this rather than at it.

Not sure this is you? Four hand tests will settle it — the squeeze test alone distinguishes the main textures in about a minute.

What it is

Texture: The balanced mixture every soil description uses as its reference point: holds moisture without waterlogging, and works over a long season.
source
Horticultural consensusmoderate confidence
Soilscapes — Cranfield University, National Soil Resources Institute: Soil texture classes
Checked 2026-08-13
pH: Neutral — conventionally pH 6.5 to 7.2
Sourced guidanceDepends on conditionsmoderate confidence
Applies when: Loam is a texture, not a pH. A loam can be acid or alkaline depending on its parent material, and the neutral case recorded here is the commonest rather than the definition.
Soilscapes — Cranfield University, National Soil Resources Institute: Soil reaction
Checked 2026-08-13
Drainage: Moderate — holds moisture without staying wet
source
Horticultural consensusmoderate confidence
Soilscapes — Cranfield University, National Soil Resources Institute: Drainage classes
Checked 2026-08-13
Moisture: Holds moisture well
source
Horticultural consensusmoderate confidence
Soilscapes — Cranfield University, National Soil Resources Institute: Available water capacity
Checked 2026-08-13
Structure: Good crumb structure
source
Horticultural consensusmoderate confidence
James Hutton Institute — The James Hutton Institute: Soil structure
Checked 2026-08-13
Organic matter: moderate
Sourced guidancelow confidence
James Hutton Institute — The James Hutton Institute: Soil organic matter
Checked 2026-08-13
Working depth: 40–80 cm
Sourced guidancelow confidence
Soilscapes — Cranfield University, National Soil Resources Institute: Soil depth
Checked 2026-08-13
Holds nutrients: good
source
Horticultural consensusmoderate confidence
Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board — AHDB: Soil texture and nutrient retention
Checked 2026-08-13

Described viewA handful of loam holding a loose ball shape and crumbling apart when prodded with a fingerHolds a shape, breaks when pushed: the behaviour every other soil is described against.

What it is good at

Every soil grows something better than loam does, and a description that lists only problems is a complaint rather than intelligence.

Holds moisture without waterlogging and drains without drying out, which is the combination every other soil in this list is short of in one direction or the other.
source
Horticultural consensusmoderate confidence
- Royal Horticultural Society: Soil types
Checked 2026-08-13
Workable over a long season and warms reasonably early, so there is no narrow window to hit and few crops that are ruled out.
source
Sourced guidancehigh confidence
- Royal Horticultural Society: Soil types
Checked 2026-08-13

What goes wrong on it

The honest limitation of loam is that it is not a licence to stop: organic matter still breaks down, structure is still destroyed by working it wet, and a neglected loam becomes a compacted one within a few seasons.
source
GrowingHQ editorial positionmoderate confidence
Recorded as a limitation rather than omitted because a record listing no downside reads as an advertisement, and because the commonest failure on good soil is the assumption that it maintains itself.
- GrowingHQ editorial synthesis — GrowingHQ
Checked 2026-08-13

What grows on loam

Computed across 223 plants by comparing each one's recorded requirements against this soil's recorded characteristics. Every verdict can be taken apart into the criteria that produced it, and a recorded horticultural fact overrides the computation where one exists.

Prefers this soil205

Plant	Why
Agapanthus	Loam suits Agapanthus as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Aloe vera	Loam suits Aloe vera as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Amelanchier	Loam suits Amelanchier as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Apple	Loam suits Apple as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Apricot	Loam suits Apricot as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Armand clematis	Loam suits Armand clematis as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Asparagus	Loam suits Asparagus as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Aubergine	Loam suits Aubergine as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Basil	Loam suits Basil as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Bay	Loam suits Bay as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Bearded iris	Loam suits Bearded iris as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6.5 to 7.8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Beetroot	Loam suits Beetroot as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Berberis	Loam suits Berberis as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Bird of paradise	Loam suits Bird of paradise as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Blackberry	Loam suits Blackberry as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Blue fescue	Loam suits Blue fescue as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Borage	Loam suits Borage as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Broad bean	Loam suits Broad bean as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Broccoli	Loam suits Broccoli as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Brunnera	Loam suits Brunnera as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Brussels sprouts	Loam suits Brussels sprouts as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Buddleja	Loam suits Buddleja as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Bugle	Loam suits Bugle as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Cabbage	Loam suits Cabbage as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Californian lilac	Loam suits Californian lilac as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Camellia	Loam suits Camellia as it stands: The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Canna	Loam suits Canna as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Carrot	Loam suits Carrot as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Cauliflower	Loam suits Cauliflower as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Celeriac	Loam suits Celeriac as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Celery	Loam suits Celery as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Chamomile	Loam suits Chamomile as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Chard	Loam suits Chard as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Cherry	Loam suits Cherry as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Chervil	Loam suits Chervil as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Chicory	Loam suits Chicory as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Chilli pepper	Loam suits Chilli pepper as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Chinese money plant	Loam suits Chinese money plant as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Chives	Loam suits Chives as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Christmas box	Loam suits Christmas box as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.8, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Clematis	Loam suits Clematis as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Climbing hydrangea	Loam suits Climbing hydrangea as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Coriander	Loam suits Coriander as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Cotoneaster	Loam suits Cotoneaster as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Courgette	Loam suits Courgette as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Crab apple	Loam suits Crab apple as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Crocosmia	Loam suits Crocosmia as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Crocus	Loam suits Crocus as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Cucumber	Loam suits Cucumber as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Curry leaf	Loam suits Curry leaf as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Daffodil	Loam suits Daffodil as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Dahlia	Loam suits Dahlia as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Deutzia	Loam suits Deutzia as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Dill	Loam suits Dill as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Dragon tree	Loam suits Dragon tree as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Echeveria	Loam suits Echeveria as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Echinacea	Loam suits Echinacea as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Endive	Loam suits Endive as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Epimedium	Loam suits Epimedium as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Escallonia	Loam suits Escallonia as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Evergreen climbing hydrangea	Loam suits Evergreen climbing hydrangea as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Fatsia	Loam suits Fatsia as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Feather reed grass	Loam suits Feather reed grass as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Fennel	Loam suits Fennel as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Fig	Loam suits Fig as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Firethorn	Loam suits Firethorn as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Forsythia	Loam suits Forsythia as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Foxglove	Loam suits Foxglove as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
French bean	Loam suits French bean as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Fuchsia	Loam suits Fuchsia as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Garlic	Loam suits Garlic as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Garlic chives	Loam suits Garlic chives as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Gladiolus	Loam suits Gladiolus as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Globe artichoke	Loam suits Globe artichoke as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Golden-scaled male fern	Loam suits Golden-scaled male fern as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Grape	Loam suits Grape as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Grape hyacinth	Loam suits Grape hyacinth as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Hard shield fern	Loam suits Hard shield fern as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Hardy cyclamen	Loam suits Hardy cyclamen as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Hardy geranium	Loam suits Hardy geranium as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Hart's tongue fern	Loam suits Hart's tongue fern as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6.5 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Haworthia	Loam suits Haworthia as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Hawthorn	Loam suits Hawthorn as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Heartleaf philodendron	Loam suits Heartleaf philodendron as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Hebe	Loam suits Hebe as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Hellebore	Loam suits Hellebore as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6.5 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Henry's honeysuckle	Loam suits Henry's honeysuckle as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Heuchera	Loam suits Heuchera as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Hippeastrum	Loam suits Hippeastrum as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Holly	Loam suits Holly as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Honeysuckle	Loam suits Honeysuckle as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Hosta	Loam suits Hosta as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Hoya	Loam suits Hoya as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Hyacinth	Loam suits Hyacinth as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Hydrangea	Loam suits Hydrangea as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Hyssop	Loam suits Hyssop as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6.5 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Ivy	Loam suits Ivy as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Jade plant	Loam suits Jade plant as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Japanese forest grass	Loam suits Japanese forest grass as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Japanese maple	Loam suits Japanese maple as it stands: The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Jerusalem artichoke	Loam suits Jerusalem artichoke as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Kale	Loam suits Kale as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Kentia palm	Loam suits Kentia palm as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Kohlrabi	Loam suits Kohlrabi as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Lady fern	Loam suits Lady fern as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Lamb's lettuce	Loam suits Lamb's lettuce as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Land cress	Loam suits Land cress as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Lavender	Loam suits Lavender as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6.5 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Leek	Loam suits Leek as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Lemon balm	Loam suits Lemon balm as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Lemon thyme	Loam suits Lemon thyme as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Lemon verbena	Loam suits Lemon verbena as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Lemongrass	Loam suits Lemongrass as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Lettuce	Loam suits Lettuce as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Lily	Loam suits Lily as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Loganberry	Loam suits Loganberry as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Lovage	Loam suits Lovage as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Mahonia	Loam suits Mahonia as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Maidenhair spleenwort	Loam suits Maidenhair spleenwort as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6.5 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Male fern	Loam suits Male fern as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Marjoram	Loam suits Marjoram as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Melon	Loam suits Melon as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Mexican feather grass	Loam suits Mexican feather grass as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Mexican orange blossom	Loam suits Mexican orange blossom as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Mint	Loam suits Mint as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Miscanthus	Loam suits Miscanthus as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Mock orange	Loam suits Mock orange as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Monstera	Loam suits Monstera as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Nerine	Loam suits Nerine as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Onion	Loam suits Onion as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Oregano	Loam suits Oregano as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Ornamental allium	Loam suits Ornamental allium as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Osmanthus	Loam suits Osmanthus as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Ostrich fern	Loam suits Ostrich fern as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Pak choi	Loam suits Pak choi as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Parlour palm	Loam suits Parlour palm as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Parsley	Loam suits Parsley as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Parsnip	Loam suits Parsnip as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Passionflower	Loam suits Passionflower as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Pea	Loam suits Pea as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Peach	Loam suits Peach as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Pear	Loam suits Pear as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Peony	Loam suits Peony as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Peperomia	Loam suits Peperomia as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Periwinkle	Loam suits Periwinkle as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Pieris	Loam suits Pieris as it stands: The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Plum	Loam suits Plum as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Potato	Loam suits Potato as it stands: The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Pothos	Loam suits Pothos as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Pumpkin	Loam suits Pumpkin as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Quince	Loam suits Quince as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Radish	Loam suits Radish as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Raspberry	Loam suits Raspberry as it stands: The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Rhododendron	Loam suits Rhododendron as it stands: The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Rhubarb	Loam suits Rhubarb as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Rocket	Loam suits Rocket as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Rose	Loam suits Rose as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Rosemary	Loam suits Rosemary as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Rowan	Loam suits Rowan as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 4.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Rubber plant	Loam suits Rubber plant as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Rudbeckia	Loam suits Rudbeckia as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Runner bean	Loam suits Runner bean as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Sage	Loam suits Sage as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Salad burnet	Loam suits Salad burnet as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6.5 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Salvia	Loam suits Salvia as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Savory	Loam suits Savory as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Sedge	Loam suits Sedge as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Shallot	Loam suits Shallot as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Shiso	Loam suits Shiso as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Silver birch	Loam suits Silver birch as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 4.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Snake plant	Loam suits Snake plant as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Snowdrop	Loam suits Snowdrop as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Soft shield fern	Loam suits Soft shield fern as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Sorrel	Loam suits Sorrel as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Spider plant	Loam suits Spider plant as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Spinach	Loam suits Spinach as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Spiraea	Loam suits Spiraea as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Spring onion	Loam suits Spring onion as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Star jasmine	Loam suits Star jasmine as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Strawberry	Loam suits Strawberry as it stands: The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
String of hearts	Loam suits String of hearts as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
String of pearls	Loam suits String of pearls as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Swede	Loam suits Swede as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Sweet pepper	Loam suits Sweet pepper as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Sweetcorn	Loam suits Sweetcorn as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Swiss cheese vine	Loam suits Swiss cheese vine as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Syngonium	Loam suits Syngonium as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Tarragon	Loam suits Tarragon as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Tayberry	Loam suits Tayberry as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Thai basil	Loam suits Thai basil as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Thyme	Loam suits Thyme as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Tiger flower	Loam suits Tiger flower as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Tomato	Loam suits Tomato as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering. There is ample rooting depth for it.
Tuberous begonia	Loam suits Tuberous begonia as it stands: The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Tulip	Loam suits Tulip as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Turnip	Loam suits Turnip as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Viburnum	Loam suits Viburnum as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Vietnamese coriander	Loam suits Vietnamese coriander as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Virginia creeper	Loam suits Virginia creeper as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 7.8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Weigela	Loam suits Weigela as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Winter savory	Loam suits Winter savory as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6.5 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Winter squash	Loam suits Winter squash as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Wisteria	Loam suits Wisteria as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7.5, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
Yew	Loam suits Yew as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 5.5 to 8, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Loam is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.
ZZ plant	Loam suits ZZ plant as it stands: The pH suits it: it wants 6 to 7, and this soil is in that range. The free drainage is exactly what it wants. The soil holds moisture, which saves a great deal of watering.

Grows well here17

Plant	Why
Aglaonema	Aglaonema grows perfectly well on loam without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose.
Alocasia	Alocasia grows perfectly well on loam without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose.
Anthurium	Anthurium grows perfectly well on loam without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose.
Blackcurrant	Blackcurrant grows perfectly well on loam without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose.
Boston fern	Boston fern grows perfectly well on loam without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose.
Calathea	Calathea grows perfectly well on loam without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose.
Christmas cactus	Christmas cactus grows perfectly well on loam without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose.
Dieffenbachia	Dieffenbachia grows perfectly well on loam without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose.
Fittonia	Fittonia grows perfectly well on loam without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose.
Gooseberry	Gooseberry grows perfectly well on loam without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose.
Magnolia	Magnolia grows perfectly well on loam without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose.
Moth orchid	Moth orchid grows perfectly well on loam without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose.
Peace lily	Peace lily grows perfectly well on loam without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose.
Redcurrant	Redcurrant grows perfectly well on loam without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose.
Royal fern	Royal fern grows perfectly well on loam without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose.
Skimmia	Skimmia grows perfectly well on loam without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose.
Whitecurrant	Whitecurrant grows perfectly well on loam without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose.

Works, with one condition1

These crop perfectly well here once one specific thing is dealt with. The condition is stated for each, and it is usually a single job rather than an ongoing one.

Plant	Why	What to do
Blueberry	Blueberry will crop on loam, but one thing has to be dealt with first. The soil is substantially too alkaline for it: it wants pH 4 to 5.5, and this soil sits around 6.5 to 7.2.	The pH is the obstacle. Small shifts are achievable and slow; large ones are not. On loam the dependable answer is a container of the right compost rather than an attempt to change the ground.

What is worth doing about it

Each of these states its ceiling as well as its effect, because every soil improvement is oversold somewhere and a gardener who knows where it stops does not keep going for another three years.

Bulky organic matter

Two to five years of repetitionmoderate effort

Improves structure on every soil type: it binds sand into crumbs that hold water and nutrients, and opens clay so air and roots can get through. It also feeds the soil biology that maintains the structure once it exists.

source

Horticultural consensusmoderate confidence

Royal Horticultural Society: Improving soil
James Hutton Institute — The James Hutton Institute: Soil organic matter and structure

Checked 2026-08-13

What it will not do: It will not change what the soil is made of. Clay with twenty years of compost in it is well-structured clay, not loam, and it will still be sticky in a wet February. Nor does it meaningfully move pH.

Manure must be well rotted. Fresh manure scorches roots and robs nitrogen from the soil as it breaks down, and manure from an unknown source can carry residues of persistent broad-leaved herbicides that damage potatoes, tomatoes and beans for several seasons.

source

Sourced guidancehigh confidence

Royal Horticultural Society: Manure — aminopyralid contamination

Checked 2026-08-13

Leaving the soil undug

Two to five years of repetitionlow effort

Preserves the crumb structure, fungal networks and worm channels that give a soil its drainage and its air. Worms incorporate a surface mulch downwards without the structural damage that digging does.

source

Sourced guidancemoderate confidence

Garden Organic — Garden Organic (Henry Doubleday Research Association): No-dig cultivation
James Hutton Institute — The James Hutton Institute: Soil structure under cultivation

Checked 2026-08-13

What it will not do: It does not relieve existing deep compaction, which usually has to be broken once before a no-dig regime can maintain anything. Nor does it remove the need for organic matter — no-dig is a way of applying it, not a substitute.

Green manures

A difference within one seasonlow effort

Adds organic matter without importing it, protects the surface from winter rain — which is what causes capping and nutrient leaching on light and silty soils — and, with a legume, fixes nitrogen. Deep-rooted types such as grazing rye break into moderately compacted ground.

source

Sourced guidancemoderate confidence

Garden Organic — Garden Organic (Henry Doubleday Research Association): Green manures

Checked 2026-08-13

What it will not do: The quantity of organic matter a green manure adds is small compared with a barrowload of compost — its value is in covering ground through winter and in the roots, not in bulk. It also occupies the bed, which is the real cost on a small plot.

Do not let a green manure set seed, and choose one from a different family to the crop that follows. Mustard is a brassica, so it should never precede or follow brassicas on ground where clubroot is a risk.

source

Sourced guidancehigh confidence

Royal Horticultural Society: Green manures

Checked 2026-08-13

Surface mulch

Works straight awaylow effort

Slows evaporation from the surface, so a droughty soil holds what it is given for longer. It also suppresses annual weeds and protects the surface from the impact of heavy rain, which is what causes capping.

source

Horticultural consensusmoderate confidence

Royal Horticultural Society: Mulching

Checked 2026-08-13

What it will not do: It does not add water. Mulch applied to dry ground keeps it dry — the soil must be moist when the mulch goes on, which in practice means spring after rain rather than midsummer.

All ten interventions, compared, including the ones that do not apply here.

The other soils

Soil record reviewed 2026-08-14.