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Trees by Soil Type

Match a tree to your soil type before you plant to reduce establishment failures and keep maintenance to a minimum. Clay soils suit moisture-tolerant species; sandy, free-draining ground favours trees that cope with dry conditions between waterings; chalky and alkaline soils call for varieties that perform at higher pH. Choosing correctly from the start is more reliable than trying to amend the soil to suit the tree. Use the sections below to filter by soil type, or visit trees by feature if you want to search by growth habit or garden size. If you are unsure of your soil type, our blog guide on what type of soil do I have covers the main ways to identify it.

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How to choose trees by soil type

Compare varieties across the full trees range or filter further in trees by feature. The FAQs below cover which trees grow well in clay, the best choices for acid and alkaline soils, and how to improve drainage before planting.

What trees grow well in clay soil?

Trees that grow well in clay soil include Amelanchier, Hawthorn, Hornbeam, Liquidambar and Cercidiphyllum. These species tolerate the heavier, wetter conditions clay can create, particularly through winter. Incorporate grit and organic matter when planting to improve drainage around the root zone and give the tree the best start.

What trees suit sandy or free-draining soil?

Trees that suit sandy or free-draining soil include Silver Birch, Laburnum, Robinia and many Prunus (ornamental cherry) varieties. These species are adapted to drier conditions and do not perform well in persistently wet ground. Adding well-rotted organic matter at planting helps retain moisture in the critical establishment period.

Which trees grow on chalky or alkaline soil?

Trees that grow on chalky or alkaline soil include Cercis, Prunus (ornamental cherries), Sorbus (Rowan) and Malus (Crab Apple). Avoid acid-loving species such as Japanese Maple and Magnolia on strongly alkaline ground, as they will show yellowing leaves and poor growth.

Can I plant an acid-loving tree in neutral or alkaline soil?

Acid-loving trees perform poorly on alkaline soils. On neutral ground with pH close to 7, amending the planting area with ericaceous compost and a soil acidifier can help. For strongly alkaline conditions, it is better to choose a variety suited to that pH rather than trying to adjust the soil significantly.

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