Sand is a mineral material that can have its advantages, however, few plants are adapted to such conditions. Some plants are still rather well adapted to it and enjoy these particular terrains.
The specificities of sandy soils
A sandy soil has as major interests to be easy to work, to ensure an optimal drainage and to be light. In spring it warms up quickly and in winter it does not gorge itself of water, which is suitable for many plants. Disadvantage: this type of soil is never very fertile and does not retain water for watering, so it is not suitable for plants that are greedy for fertilizing elements and water.
Plants best adapted to sandy soils
As we have seen, some plants appreciate the specific conditions offered by sandy soil. Thus in the vegetable garden, garlic, carrots, asparagus or radishes will enjoy this type of soil which allows their roots to sink well into the ground. However, an addition of organic elements will be necessary to balance it and ensure an abundant harvest.
Many aromatic plants also require a slightly sandy soil. Rosemary, thyme, fennel or chives will grow much better in such an environment.
Some Mediterranean plants also thrive in this well-drained environment. Agapanthus, lavender, santolina, cineraria or helichrysium will make perfect borders, as will gazanias or ficoïds which come to us from South Africa.
In the massifs, the various cultivars of broom will find their place, as well as cistus, tamarisk or mallow trees. Let's not forget the heather soil plants which generally appreciate this type of acidic and light soil if it is however a little fertile. Rhododendrons, azaleas or camellias can be planted there, in mid-shade and with an addition of heather soil that will better retain water for watering.
For their graphic appeal and to create movement, think of the grasses that are often eager for well-drained courts: Pennisetums that are always very airy, slender Juncus or Leymus arenarius that will stabilize mounds and sandy slopes, there are many possibilities.
Bulbous plants are also often well adapted to sandy soils because some of them tolerate very poorly the stagnant moisture at the bulb level. This is the case of tulips, hyacinths, crocuses but also some narcissus, daylilies and eremurus to name a few!
Other plants particularly appreciating these very drained and mineral soils: cacti and succulents. The choice is then vast! Sedums, houselegs and some agaves can be planted in most regions. Opuntias, candelabra cacti, Euphorbia canariensis, derocactus and echinopsis the famous "mother-in-law cushion" should be reserved for the very sheltered and sunny areas of the extreme South!
