These Eight Plants Are Both Stunning And Can Naturally Enrich The Soil Quality Of Your Outdoor Space, Leading To A Lusher Garden
Gardening isn’t just about what you see above ground – because, obviously, a lot of the magic happens beneath the surface.
So, what if you could curate your garden to house plants that don’t just look pretty but also improve the soil quality of your outdoor space?
There are certain plants that can help boost your soil’s health in a variety of ways, leading to a more vibrant and thriving garden. Here are some of our top picks, as well as how to plant and care for them.
Marigold
Marigolds are native to Mexico and Central America and are recognized by their vibrant range of colors, from deep orange to bright yellow.
These bright blooms are also effective in breaking up heavy soils and can deter nematodes due to their root secretions.
To care for marigolds, all you have to do is plant them in full sun and well-draining soil. They can thrive even in poor soil conditions and require regular watering and occasional deadheading to promote fuller blooms.
Wild Lupine
Originating from North America, wild lupine features tall, spiky clusters of flowers, typically in shades of deep blue and purple.
maryviolet – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual person
This legume also helps enrich the soil by fixing nitrogen, which is essential for healthy plant growth and benefits surrounding blooms.
Keep in mind that lupines perform best in sandy, slightly acidic soil under full to partial sun. They also need moderate watering and minimal fertilization if the soil already has sufficient nitrogen.
Sunflowers
Sunflowers are native to North America and are widely beloved for their large, sunny heads that can reach impressive heights.
But did you know that they are excellent at extracting toxins like lead and arsenic from contaminated soils, too?
To reap these benefits in your garden, plant your sunflowers in loose, well-draining soil and a sunny spot. Also, be sure to water them regularly and consider staking taller varieties to support their growth.
Garden Peas
Garden peas, which are native to Western Asia, are admired for their delicate vines and round, edible pods. As a legume, peas help improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen as well.
They just prefer cooler temperatures and should be planted in a season that supports this climate in your area. Additionally, ensure they have a structure to climb, like a trellis, and keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Chicory
Chicory, which comes from Europe, is a bloom easily recognized by its bright blue flowers. But its deep roots are also beneficial for breaking up compacted soil in your garden and bringing nutrients to the surface.
To successfully grow this plant, remember that it thrives in full sun with minimal water once established. Also, chicory prefers well-drained soil.
Garlic
Native to Central Asia, garlic is famous for its strong aroma and flavor in countless dishes, with long green shoots and a bulb that forms underground.
In your garden, garlic can help control pests and diseases in the soil with its natural antifungal and antibacterial properties.
Be sure to plant garlic cloves in the fall for a summer harvest in well-drained soil and full sun. Regular watering and mulching will also help maintain soil moisture.
Crimson Clover
Crimson clover, which hails from the Mediterranean regions, features vibrant red blooms and is often used as a cover crop. It also improves soil structure and fertility by fixing nitrogen.
To grow crimson clover, plant it in early spring or late summer in cool climates. Additionally, you should water regularly and cut back after flowering to prevent it from spreading aggressively.
Milk Thistle
Last but not least, milk thistle is known for its prickly, silver-green leaves and purple, thistle-like flowers. This plant is native to Mediterranean countries, and its deep roots help improve both soil aeration and structure.
Milk thistle prefers full sun and well-drained soil, is drought-tolerant, and actually requires minimal care. However, it can still spread quickly if seeds are not controlled.
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