The soil type in your garden has a strong influence on the plants that are more likely to survive in the garden so it is important to identify the soil type, in order to help you choose the right plants for your garden and maintain their health and vigour as plants put in unsuitable soils will struggle to survive. Knowing which plant is more likely to succeed in a particular soil will lessen the chances of disappointing results and allow you to plan your garden with confidence.
Chalky or lime-rich soils may be light or heavy but are largely made up of calcium carbonate and are very alkaline. If soil froths when placed in a jar of vinegar, then it contains free calcium carbonate (chalk) or limestone and is lime rich. Chalky soils are alkaline, so will not support ericaceous plants that need acid soil conditions. Very chalky soils may contain lumps of visible chalky white stone. Such soils cannot be acidified, and it is better to choose plants that will thrive in alkaline conditions.
Chalky soils are very alkaline and may be light or heavy
