Hampshire is a county of contrasting soils and microclimates. The chalk downs around Winchester and Petersfield suit different plants to the clay soils of the Test Valley or the mild coastal fringes near Southampton and Fareham. Choosing plants suited to your specific conditions is the single biggest factor in gardening success.
Plants for Chalk and Free-Draining Soils
Much of central and northern Hampshire sits over chalk, creating alkaline, fast-draining conditions. Mediterranean plants and prairie-style perennials excel here.
- Lavender — thrives in chalk, excellent for pollinators
- Cistus — evergreen and drought-tolerant
- Salvia — wide range of species, all love good drainage
- Achillea — tough, drought-tolerant, long-flowering
- Knautia macedonica — scabiosa-like, loved by bees
- Echinacea — bold summer colour, good winter seedheads
Plants for Clay Soils
Clay-heavy gardens in the Test Valley and New Forest fringes benefit from moisture-retaining conditions. Roses, astilbes and hostas all perform well in these areas.
Coastal-Tolerant Plants
Gardens near Southampton Water, the Solent or the Hampshire coast need wind-resistant plants. Tamarisk, pittosporum and sea buckthorn all cope with salt-laden air and exposure.
A&T Landscapes knows Hampshire soils well and can recommend the right plants for your specific garden. Call 07735 916029 for expert planting advice.