How to Plant a Container Based Rockery

A rockery provides an interesting feature in any garden, for those gardeners for whom space is at a premium a container based version will work just as well and may provide additional interest.

Materials Needed to Make a Container Rockery

The first consideration is what container to use, a container based rockery can generally be built using a variety of receptacles ranging from the micro-sized trough rockery with just a few plants through to a half barrel for a more substantial display. The container based rockery really is a chance to be creative, household objects such as old pottery sinks or large food cans (think large olive oil tins) also make interesting considerations.

The next consideration is that of the soil mix to be used. In general a rockery is planted with Alpine plants which love a free draining soil. As such the recommended mix is a combination of 50% general purpose or ericaceous soil to 50% fine grit. The amount of soil required will depend upon the size of the container chosen.

The next consideration is that of what feature rocks to use. Selection should take place based upon aesthetical considerations, however in general selection of a single stone type will provide the best display. The most popular rock groups used in construction are sandstone and granite which are both relatively inexpensive and widely available. Section of a number of shapes and sizes will aid the gardener in planting later on and will give the feature a more natural look.

Finally one must consider the plants to be used, in general a rockery should be planted with alpine plants which take on a variety of forms from the annual alpine poppy through to the perennial succulent. For a container based rockery it is recommended that dwarf specimens are selected so as to minimise the need for maintenance and ensure a neat appearance of the feature.

Building a Container Rockery

The first stage in constructing of a container rockery is the preparation of the container its self. Firstly one should ensure that the container has adequate drainage, in order to do this the gardener should see that the container has sufficient holes drilled at the base of the container. In addition it is recommended that a layer of broken pottery is added to the bottom of the container.

The container should then be filled half to three quarters the way up with the soil and grit mix to give a base for the feature rocks. At this stage feature rocks should be added placing the largest stones first. Once the rocks have been added the rockery can then be toped up with the soil and grit mix to fill in any gaps.

At this stage it is recommended that that rockery with watered thoroughly and left for a number of days before planting. Taking such an action will allow the rocks to settle and reduce the risk of damage to plants which may occur if planting takes place straight way.

After settling the feature is ready for planting. Plants should have their roots gently inserted into cracks and cervices of the rockery taking care not to damage the roots. After insertion it is recommended that the cracks are backfilled with a little extra soil and grit mix before the whole feature is watered again.