Gritty between the fingers, will not hold a ball shape, and drains within minutes of a downpour. Easy to work every day of the year and hungry and thirsty all of it.
Not sure this is you? Four hand tests will settle it — the squeeze test alone distinguishes the main textures in about a minute.
Horticultural consensusmoderate confidence
Checked 2026-08-13
Applies when: Sandy soils over acid parent material leach base cations and tend to acidify. Sandy soils over limestone do not. The texture does not determine the pH, and this is the commonest case rather than a rule.
Checked 2026-08-13
Horticultural consensusmoderate confidence
Checked 2026-08-13
Horticultural consensusmoderate confidence
Checked 2026-08-13
Horticultural consensusmoderate confidence
Checked 2026-08-13
Sourced guidancemoderate confidence
Organic matter breaks down faster in a warm, well-aerated sandy soil than in clay, so maintaining a level takes repeated additions rather than one.
Checked 2026-08-13
Checked 2026-08-13
Horticultural consensusmoderate confidence
Checked 2026-08-13
Every soil grows something better than loam does, and a description that lists only problems is a complaint rather than intelligence.
Horticultural consensusmoderate confidence
Checked 2026-08-13
Sourced guidancehigh confidence
Checked 2026-08-13
Sourced guidancemoderate confidence
Checked 2026-08-13
Horticultural consensusmoderate confidence
Checked 2026-08-13
Horticultural consensusmoderate confidence
Checked 2026-08-13
The thing most worth knowing
The instinct on sand is to feed it. The more useful move is to make it hold what it is given: organic matter every year, and a mulch on top so what does go in stays.
Not problems it causes — problems whose severity this soil materially changes. The distinction matters, because the remedy is usually about the soil rather than the pest.
A check from drying out is one of the reliable triggers for bolting in lettuce, spinach and beetroot, and a sandy soil delivers that check faster than any other.
Sourced guidancemoderate confidence
Checked 2026-08-13
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.
| Plant | Why |
|---|---|
| Agapanthus | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Aloe vera | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Amelanchier | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Apricot | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. There is ample rooting depth for it. |
| Asparagus | Sandy suits Asparagus as it stands: The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Bay | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Bearded iris | Sandy suits Bearded iris as it stands: The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Berberis | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Blackberry | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. There is ample rooting depth for it. |
| Blue fescue | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Borage | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Buddleja | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Californian lilac | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Carrot | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. There is ample rooting depth for it. |
| Chamomile | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Chicory | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Cotoneaster | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Crab apple | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Crocosmia | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Crocus | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Daffodil | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Dill | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Dragon tree | Sandy 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. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Echeveria | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Echinacea | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Epimedium | Sandy 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. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Escallonia | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Fennel | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Fig | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. There is ample rooting depth for it. |
| Firethorn | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Forsythia | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Foxglove | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| French bean | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Garlic | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Garlic chives | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Gladiolus | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Globe artichoke | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Golden-scaled male fern | Sandy 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. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Grape | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. There is ample rooting depth for it. |
| Grape hyacinth | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Hard shield fern | Sandy 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. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Hardy cyclamen | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Hardy geranium | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Haworthia | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Hawthorn | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Hebe | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Henry's honeysuckle | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Holly | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Hoya | Sandy 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. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Hyacinth | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Hyssop | Sandy suits Hyssop as it stands: The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Ivy | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Jade plant | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Jerusalem artichoke | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Lamb's lettuce | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Lavender | Sandy suits Lavender as it stands: The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Lemon balm | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Lemon thyme | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Lemon verbena | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Lily | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Mahonia | Sandy 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. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Male fern | Sandy 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. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Marjoram | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Mexican feather grass | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Mexican orange blossom | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Miscanthus | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Mock orange | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Nerine | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Onion | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Oregano | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Ornamental allium | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Osmanthus | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Parsnip | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. There is ample rooting depth for it. |
| Passionflower | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Peach | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. There is ample rooting depth for it. |
| Periwinkle | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Pothos | Sandy 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. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Rosemary | Sandy soil's low fertility and sharp drainage are exactly what rosemary wants, and it is one of very few crops genuinely improved by ground most growers apologise for.recorded fact |
| Rowan | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Sage | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Salad burnet | Sandy suits Salad burnet as it stands: The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Salvia | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Savory | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Shallot | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Silver birch | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Snake plant | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Spider plant | Sandy 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. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Spiraea | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Star jasmine | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| String of hearts | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| String of pearls | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Sweetcorn | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Tarragon | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Thyme | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Tiger flower | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Tulip | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Viburnum | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Virginia creeper | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Winter savory | Sandy suits Winter savory as it stands: The free drainage is exactly what it wants. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Wisteria | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. |
| Yew | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| ZZ plant | Sandy 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. Sandy soil is among the soils it is recorded as suiting. It stands dry conditions better than most, which this soil will test. |
| Plant | Why |
|---|---|
| Aglaonema | Aglaonema grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Apple | Apple grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Armand clematis | Armand clematis grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Beetroot | Beetroot grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Bird of paradise | Bird of paradise grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Broad bean | Broad bean grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Brussels sprouts | Brussels sprouts grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Chard | Chard grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Chilli pepper | Chilli pepper grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Chinese money plant | Chinese money plant grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Chives | Chives grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Christmas box | Christmas box grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Christmas cactus | Christmas cactus grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Curry leaf | Curry leaf grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Deutzia | Deutzia grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Evergreen climbing hydrangea | Evergreen climbing hydrangea grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Fatsia | Fatsia grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Feather reed grass | Feather reed grass grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Gooseberry | Gooseberry grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Hart's tongue fern | Hart's tongue fern grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Heartleaf philodendron | Heartleaf philodendron grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Hellebore | Hellebore grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Heuchera | Heuchera grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Hippeastrum | Hippeastrum grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Kale | Kale grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Kentia palm | Kentia palm grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Leek | Leek grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Loganberry | Loganberry grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Lovage | Lovage grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Maidenhair spleenwort | Maidenhair spleenwort grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Monstera | Monstera grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Moth orchid | Moth orchid grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Parlour palm | Parlour palm grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Pear | Pear grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Peony | Peony grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Peperomia | Peperomia grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Plum | Plum grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Quince | Quince grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Redcurrant | Redcurrant grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Rose | Rose grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Rubber plant | Rubber plant grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Rudbeckia | Rudbeckia grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Snowdrop | Snowdrop grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Soft shield fern | Soft shield fern grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Sweet pepper | Sweet pepper grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Swiss cheese vine | Swiss cheese vine grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Syngonium | Syngonium grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Tayberry | Tayberry grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Weigela | Weigela grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
| Whitecurrant | Whitecurrant grows perfectly well on sandy without special measures, though it is not the soil it would choose. |
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Alocasia | Alocasia will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Anthurium | Anthurium will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Aubergine | Aubergine will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Basil | Basil will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Blackcurrant | Blackcurrant will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Blueberry | Blueberry will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Broccoli | Broccoli will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Brunnera | Brunnera will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Bugle | Bugle will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Cabbage | Cabbage will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Calathea | Calathea will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Camellia | Camellia will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Canna | Canna will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Cauliflower | Cauliflower will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Celeriac | Celeriac will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Cherry | Cherry will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Chervil | Chervil will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Clematis | Clematis will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Climbing hydrangea | Climbing hydrangea will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Coriander | Coriander will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Courgette | Courgette will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Cucumber | Cucumber will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Dahlia | Dahlia will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Dieffenbachia | Dieffenbachia will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Endive | Endive will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Fittonia | Fittonia will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Fuchsia | Fuchsia will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Honeysuckle | Honeysuckle will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Hydrangea | Hydrangea will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Japanese forest grass | Japanese forest grass will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Japanese maple | Japanese maple will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Kohlrabi | Kohlrabi will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Lady fern | Lady fern will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Land cress | Land cress will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Lemongrass | Lemongrass will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Lettuce | Lettuce is shallow-rooted and has almost no drought tolerance, and a sandy soil delivers the check that makes it bolt faster than any other. It is not a difficult crop here — it is a crop that cannot be left.recorded fact | Water regularly and mulch, and sow little and often rather than all at once so a lost batch costs a fortnight instead of a season. |
| Magnolia | Magnolia will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Melon | Melon will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Mint | Mint will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Ostrich fern | Ostrich fern will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Pak choi | Pak choi will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Parsley | Parsley will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Pea | Pea will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Peace lily | Peace lily will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Pieris | Pieris will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Potato | Potato will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Pumpkin | Pumpkin will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Radish | Radish will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Raspberry | Raspberry will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Rhododendron | Rhododendron will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Rhubarb | Rhubarb will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Rocket | Rocket will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Royal fern | Royal fern will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Runner bean | Runner bean will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Sedge | Sedge will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Shiso | Shiso will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Skimmia | Skimmia will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Sorrel | Sorrel will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Spinach | Spinach will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Spring onion | Spring onion will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Strawberry | Strawberry will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Swede | Swede will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Thai basil | Thai basil will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Tomato | Tomato will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Tuberous begonia | Tuberous begonia will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Turnip | Turnip will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Vietnamese coriander | Vietnamese coriander will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
| Winter squash | Winter squash will crop on sandy, but one thing has to be dealt with first. It has little drought tolerance and this soil dries out fast — it will check and bolt in the first dry spell without watering. | Water and mulch will carry it through. On this soil the watering is not optional in a dry spell, which is the difference between a crop and a failure. |
Struggles in the open ground here. That is not the same as impossible — a container or a raised bed of imported soil sidesteps almost all of these, and for several it is the standard way of growing them anyway.
| Plant | Why |
|---|---|
| Boston fern | Included because the record exists and the comparison would otherwise pass it: a Boston fern is a container houseplant and is never planted in garden soil in Britain. Where it does go outside for the summer it wants a moisture-retentive mix, not sand.recorded fact |
| Celery | Celery is a bog plant grown as a vegetable and needs more water than anything else on a plot. On sand it dries out between waterings whatever the gardener does, and the result — stringy bitter stems — is not visible until harvest, by which point the season is gone.recorded fact |
| Hosta | Hostas in dry ground stay small and brown at the edges however much shade they have. Dry shade — under a mature tree, or a sandy bed against a north wall — is a materially harder position than the damp shade hostas are always recommended for, and the two get conflated constantly.recorded fact |
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.
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.
Horticultural consensusmoderate confidence
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.
Sourced guidancehigh confidence
Checked 2026-08-13
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.
Horticultural consensusmoderate confidence
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.
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.
Sourced guidancemoderate confidence
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.
Sourced guidancehigh confidence
Checked 2026-08-13
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.
Sourced guidancemoderate confidence
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.
Raises soil pH gradually, which improves the availability of most nutrients on an acid soil and substantially reduces the severity of clubroot in brassicas. The effect is measured in fractions of a pH point per application.
Sourced guidancehigh confidence
Checked 2026-08-13
What it will not do: It is not permanent — rain leaches it out and the soil returns towards its natural pH over a few years, so it is a maintenance practice rather than a fix. It will not make an acid soil alkaline, and it cannot be undone once overdone.
Test before liming rather than after. Over-liming locks up iron and manganese and is far harder to correct than under-liming, and lime should not be applied at the same time as manure or nitrogen fertiliser because the combination releases ammonia and wastes both. Lime is caustic: keep it off skin and eyes.
Sourced guidancehigh confidence
Checked 2026-08-13
All ten interventions, compared, including the ones that do not apply here.
Soil record reviewed 2026-08-14.