Mediterranean plants not only come from a very special climate, they often also have different requirements for the soil than our native flowers and perennials. For this reason there is special soil for these plants.
Which soil is suitable for Mediterranean plants?
Mediterranean plants need permeable, nutrient-poor and calcareous soil. A mixture of garden soil, sand, fine gravel or clay granules can be used to optimally adapt the soil. Make sure there is good drainage and a location protected from the wind.
What soil do Mediterranean plants need?
Special soil is not always necessary for special plants; the gardener can often mix the substrate himself so that the Mediterranean sensitive plants thrive. Ideally, adapt the composition to the preferred soil of the chosen plants. In the Mediterranean area it is often calcareous, sandy to rocky, rather dry, poor in nutrients and well-drained.
If you have heavy or clayey soil in your garden, you can loosen it relatively easily with sand, fine gravel or clay granules. In the same way, very rich, nutrient-rich soil becomes slightly leaner. Mediterranean plants generally do not tolerate waterlogging well. If the ground is very wet, you should consider adding a drainage layer.
What should I pay attention to when planting?
Since not only frost in winter, but also cold east winds can damage many Mediterranean plants, it is better to choose a place protected from the wind for them. The sunnier the home of the plants you choose, the sunnier the location in your garden should be. Ideally it doesn't get too cold there in winter. Otherwise, you should ensure good winter protection.
Mediterranean plants in pots
You can plant many Mediterranean species in a pot and use them to decorate your balcony or terrace. Here, too, you should ensure good drainage and use permeable, nutrient-poor substrate. Ideally the pH value is the same as your plants are used to at home; some are very lime tolerant.
The most important things in brief:
- use special soil
- Alternatively, loosen the garden soil with sand, fine gravel or clay granules
- Make soil that is too rich a little thinner (sand, fine gravel, pumice stone)
- overwinter sensitive plants frost-free
- Repot or change soil in spring
Tip
You don't necessarily have to buy expensive special soil for your Mediterranean plants, even mixed substrate works just as well and is significantly cheaper.