What are the best plants for a rock garden?

Rock gardens are so beautiful and unique. Perfect for small spaces or poor soil, many rock garden plants love those conditions. If you want to create a stunning rock garden, choosing the right plants is key. This guide will show you the best plants for a rock garden and how to design a successful rock garden.

 

Choosing the Right Plants

When choosing plants consider your site conditions. Most rock garden plants like well drained soil and full sun, some tolerate partial shade. Also choose plants for your climate, some species can’t handle extreme temperatures or high humidity.

Best Plants for a Rock Garden

1. Sedums

Sedums are a popular choice because they are low maintenance and can thrive in poor soil. They come in different colours and sizes so are a great option for rock garden design.

2. Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum)

These succulents are perfect for rock gardens, come in different colours and sizes. Drought tolerant once established so great for dry conditions.

3. Creeping Thyme

Creeping thyme is a low growing herb that fills gaps between rocks. It produces small fragrant flowers that attract pollinators, adds beauty and biodiversity to your garden.

4. Alpine Aster

Alpine asters add colour with their daisy like flowers in purple, pink and white. They love rocky well drained soil so are a great choice for rock gardens.

5. Ice Plant (Delosperma)

Ice plants are colourful, low maintenance and drought tolerant once established. Come in pink, purple and yellow, they add a striking visual to any rock garden.

6. Moss

Moss adds softness and texture, loves shady moist conditions. Great for areas with limited sunlight, adds a lush green contrast to rocky landscapes.

Designing Your Rock Garden

To add depth and visual interest place taller plants at the back and shorter plants at the front. Add rocks and boulders to create different levels and textures, to enhance the natural beauty of the garden.

Maintaining Your Rock Garden

Maintenance is key to a happy rock garden. Water regularly especially during dry spells, fertilise occasionally and prune. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and sort them out quickly and your rock garden will be looking good for years to come.

Choose the right plants and follow these design and maintenance tips and you’ll have a beautiful low maintenance rock garden.