Choosing the Right Shrub for the Conditions

When choosing any type of plant, it is always best to select a variety that will thrive in the conditions your garden has to offer, rather than trying to make the conditions suit the plant.

Take some time to learn about your garden environment; find out what type of soil you have, the level of exposure to winds, the areas of sunshine and shade, and the amount of rainfall the garden receives.

We've put together a series of handy guides to help you to choose shrubs that will flourish in a range of different conditions, such as in clay or sandy soil or in exposed sites, as well as information on selecting plants for their particular properties, such as their fragrance, or their ability to provide interest over a number of seasons.

Shrubs for Acid Soil
Find out some of the shrubs that require acidic soils.
Shrubs for Alkaline Soil
A look at the range of shrubs that can tolerate growing in a very alkaline soil.
Shrubs for Clay Soil
A guide to shrubs that can grow in heavy soils.
Shrubs for Sandy Soil
Details of a wide number of shrubs that prefer to grow in sandy or well-drained soil.
Shrubs for Dry Shade
Find out which shrubs may be grown in dry, shady conditions.
Shrubs for Moist Shade
Some examples of shrubs that can tolerate growing in damp shade.
Shrubs for Sheltered Sites
A look at the different hardy and non-hardy shrubs that prefer to be grown in a warm, sheltered site.
Shrubs for Exposed Sites
Discover which shrubs are able to withstand growing in very windy or exposed areas.
Shrubs for Polluted Air
See which shrubs are able to survive in gardens exposed to air pollution.
Shrubs for Successional Interest
A guide to the shrubs that will provide your garden with interesting stems, leaves, flowers or berries over two or more seasons.
Scented Shrubs
Looking to add fragrance to your garden? These shrubs will provide you with either aromatic leaves or scented blooms.
Wall Shrubs
A look at the different hardy and non-hardy shrubs that are particularly suitable for growing up against walls and fences.