Siliceous earth, an arid, dry substrate
Echeveria on siliceous soil.
It's hard to know what to plant in siliceous soils. Read our recommendations for varieties to Planting according to soil type on our blog.
What is siliceous earth?
Siliceous earth is mostly made of silica, a natural element that is part of the composition of rocks and the earth's crust.
Dry and arid, this type of soil is found in hot, waterless, near-desert areas, or in rocky territories.
Unlike calcareous earth, this type of soil is low in calcium.
Dry and arid, this type of soil is found in hot, waterless, near-desert areas, or in rocky territories.
Unlike calcareous earth, this type of soil is low in calcium.
Characteristics of siliceous soils
Siliceous soil changes with the seasons. Very cold in winter, it becomes very hot in summer. Low in limestone, siliceous soil dries out in fine weather.
Siliceous soil is difficult to cultivate. It needs to be enriched with lime, watered regularly and planted according to soil type.
Siliceous soil is difficult to cultivate. It needs to be enriched with lime, watered regularly and planted according to soil type.
How to recognize siliceous soil?
Like loamy soil, siliceous soil is only found in a few regions. In France, siliceous earth is found in Brittany and the Massif Central. It can be recognized by its baked, parched appearance. If the soil in your garden emits heat when the temperature rises, it's definitely siliceous soil.
In France, siliceous soil is found in Brittany and the Massif Central. It can be recognized by its baked, parched appearance. If the soil in your garden emits heat when the temperature rises, it's definitely siliceous soil.
In France, siliceous soil is found in Brittany and the Massif Central. It can be recognized by its baked, parched appearance. If the soil in your garden emits heat when the temperature rises, it's definitely siliceous soil.
