9 Tough Perennials for Clay Soil

Whether you garden in the nutrient-poor red clay of the Southeast, the calcium combined-with-clay caliche of the West or something in between, the common denominator is that clay soil is difficult to grow in. Why? Tiny particles of clay hold tightly together, slowing drainage and limiting the amount of oxygen that can reach plant roots. You've seen the resultsanemic-looking or rotting plants.

- Sherri Ribbey

AMEND OR NOT?

While you can improve clay soil by amending with organic matter, such as compost, it's not usually a practical solution for a large area. But it might help in a smaller spot, such as around your home's foundation, where clay has sometimes been brought to the surface and compacted during construction. The old recommendation of tilling in sand will often result in an even harder, denser mess unless you get the proportions just right. Further, simply filling a planting hole with compost creates a small oasis for the roots so they may not venture outside of the hole.

The most successful solution when you want beautiful borders but have a yard full of clay soil is to choose plants that can grow in this sticky situation. Let me introduce you to some clay-tolerant beauties that are up to the challenge.

Rough goldenrod

Solidago rugoso

End your garden season on a high note with the bright yellow blooms of rough goldenrod. Flowers start in late summer, last until frost and are a hub of pollinator activity. The species has arching yellow blooms, but one of its hybrids, *Fireworks, at right, is an easy variety to lind and has larger 18-inch-long sprays. While some species of goldenrod are aggressive, rough goldenrod spreads slowly by rhizomes. Clay soil can help keep it in check. Goldenrod is a versatile plant that isn,t bothered by much-even deer leave it alone. And there's no need to fertilize: Plants grow best in lean soil.

Perennial Blooms: Upright to arching plumes packed with tiny yellow individual blooms in late summer to fall Light: Full sun to part shade Size: 18 to 36 in. tall and wide Cold hardyz USDA zones 4 to 9 Source: High Country Gardens, highcountrygardens.​com, 801-769-0300

Russian sage
Perovskia atriplicifolia