Chalky soil is comprised mostly of calcium carbonate from sediment that has built up over time. It is usually shallow, stony, and dries out quickly. This soil is alkaline with pH levels between 7.1 and 10. In areas with large deposits of chalk, well water will be hard water.

Where does chalky soil come from?

Chalky soils are derived from chalk or limestone and, as a result, are alkaline in nature (pH of 7.1 and higher). Suitable plants need to be able to tolerate these alkaline conditions. Chalky soils can be very variable – from solid, pure chalk or limestone, to gravelly to good, deep, alkaline clay soils.

What grows in chalky soil?

Generally speaking, chalky soils are best suited to plants that like sharp drainage and are not too greedy in terms of nutrient requirements. The best climbing plants for chalky soils include akebia, clematis, grape vines, ivy, jasmine, lonicera and virginia creeper.