Get the best from dry soil
Gardening on dry soil? We show you how to improve your soil and grow plants that thrive during drought.
Do you have dry soil in your garden? It's quite easy to tell – it's easy to work, but it dries out fast. Other telltale signs include plants wilting quickly in hot weather and yellowing foliage, which is due to hindered nutrient take-up due to a lack of water.
If you have dry soil, there are several things you can do to improve it, including incorporating organic matter. You can also grow drought-tolerant plants.
Find out more, below.
Add organic matter
Dry soil can be easily improved by adding organic matter, such as well-rotted manure or garden compost. This will improve the soil structure and will help to retain moisture.
Mulch
Mulch the soil when it's damp to retain moisture – use compost, bark or gravel.
Grow drought-tolerant plants
Grow drought-tolerant or Mediterranean plants, such as bearded iris, agapanthus or ornamental grasses, as they will enjoy the good winter drainage. Discover 10 drought-tolerant plants to grow.
Festive subscription offer
Save 51% on the shop price. Subscribe to BBC Gardeners' World Magazine today and get 6 months of free seeds for Spring 2025.
Year Planner 2025 on sale
Starting to plan your gardening year? The Year Planner 2025 is packed with expert advice from the Gardeners’ World team, to ensure you have your best gardening year yet.
Discover our new digital travel brochure
Whether it's a thrilling Arctic cruise or a charming getaway to historic Bath, our NEW travel brochure has exciting options for everyone.
Discover Dangerous Plants
From witchcraft to murder mysteries, uncover the power of plants in the new BBC Gardeners' World Magazine podcast series.
