Got a yard full of rocks and awful soil? Trust me, I know the struggle! After moving into our house, I thought my garden dreams were dead.
But these 7 amazing plants turned my rocky mess into the prettiest garden on the block – and they’ll work in your tough spots too!
1. Alyssum (Basket of Gold)
I fell head over heels for Alyssum the moment I saw its cheerful yellow blooms brightening up my neighbor’s rock garden. This perennial beauty has become my go-to spring showstopper.
Living in Texas, I’ve learned that these sunny bloomers can be a bit short-lived in our warm climate. I usually replant mine every couple of years, but trust me, it’s worth the effort!
Starting them from seeds has been a fun project with my kids, though you can definitely save time by picking up nursery transplants.
2. Candytuft
If you’re dreaming of a winter wonderland in spring, Candytuft is your answer. I’m always amazed by how its pristine white flowers blanket my rocky slope.
The best part? As the season progresses, these snow-white blooms transform into the most delicate shade of pink. It’s like getting two different plants for the price of one!
My local deer population gives these plants a hard pass, which is a huge win in my book. Plus, the evergreen foliage keeps my garden looking fresh even after the flowers are done showing off.
3. Creeping Phlox
When winter seems endless, my creeping phlox comes to the rescue with its early spring display. I’ve planted varieties in blue, purple, and rose pink, creating a stunning carpet of color across my rocky terrain.
What really sold me on this plant was its incredible adaptability. My poor, dry soil? No problem! Heavy rainfall? It handles drainage like a champ!
The needle-like evergreen foliage looks fantastic year-round, making it a true garden MVP.
4. Dead Nettle
Don’t let the unfortunate name fool you – Dead Nettle has been my secret weapon for those tricky shaded spots in my rock garden. The variety of foliage colors, from silver to purple, adds such wonderful dimension.
From May through July, I get the most charming display of pink and white flowers. Even better? The deer leave it completely alone!
I love how quickly it spreads, though I do give it a little haircut now and then to keep it in check.
5. Ice Plant
Talk about a tough cookie! My ice plants laugh in the face of heat, drought, and even our terrible soil. Standing just 3-6 inches tall, these little warriors spread up to 2 feet wide.
The daisy-like blooms come in the most incredible array of colors. I’ve got patches of purplish pink, yellow, and orange that literally stop traffic when they’re in full bloom.
Their fleshy gray-green foliage provides interesting texture even when they’re not flowering.
6. Periwinkle (Vinca Minor)
Under the tall oak trees in my rock garden, Periwinkle has become my go-to ground cover. Those sweet lavender-blue flowers in late spring make me smile every time I look out my kitchen window.
Unlike some of my other rock garden plants, this one actually appreciates a bit of shade and moisture. It’s perfect for those spots where other plants just won’t cut it.
7. Soapwort (Saponaria Ocymoides)
Who knew a plant historically used for washing clothes could be so charming? My patch of Soapwort has become butterfly central in my garden from July through September.
The pink blooms release the most delightful fragrance, especially in the evening. I’ve found that regular deadheading keeps the show going strong all season.
Bonus Plant: Thrift (Armeria Maritima)
Don’t let its dainty appearance fool you – this tough-as-nails plant handles everything Mother Nature throws at it. My Thrift, or Sea Pink as my grandmother called it, thrives in conditions that make other plants wither.
Those adorable pink and white pom-pom blooms dancing in the spring breeze are simply irresistible. Just remember, this plant actually prefers poor soil – I learned the hard way that pampering it with rich soil does more harm than good!
To keep my Thrift looking its best, I simply snip away the spent blooms. It’s really that low-maintenance!