soil is very chalky and quite shallow
any advice on how to improve it and what will grow best gratefully received
A warm welcome to A4A! I'm sorry I can't help regarding your chalky soil as mine is heavy clay but I'm sure that someone will be along who can advise.
I'm on clay too... but welcome to A4A eastkentspur... (sounds like a road!!)
I think the basic add more organic matter advice holds good.. :-X
Hi eastkentspur , [ is that a football team ] ;D
Do think that sharp sand , garden lime and plenty compost helps ---
got the same soil in my garden, :)
Quote, garden lime
I am not sure that you need lime on chalky soil. Chalky very porous so the nutrients will wash out easily. Another vote for lots of organic matter. Maybe a good place for raised beds to increase the soil depth (not for drainage).
Your right Digeroo, lots a muck is the answer --- tired gardening person ! ;D
flossy is right, it's a football team ;D
and thanks to all who gave advice, i'm reluctantly headed down the raised bed route :(