Siliceous earth, an arid, dry substrate
It's hard to know what to plant in siliceous soil. Check out our recommendations for varieties to Planting according to soil type on our blog.
What is siliceous soil?
Siliceous soil is primarily composed of silica, a natural element found in rocks and the Earth's crust.
Dry and arid, this soil is found in nearly desert-like areas—very hot and waterless—or in rocky terrain.
Unlike calcareous earth, this type of soil is low in calcium.
Dry and arid, this soil is found in nearly desert-like areas—very hot and waterless—or in rocky terrain.
Unlike calcareous earth, this type of soil is low in calcium.
Characteristics of siliceous soil
Siliceous soil changes with the seasons. Very cold in winter, it becomes scorching hot in summer. Low in calcium, siliceous soil dries out in warm weather.
Siliceous soil is difficult to cultivate. It must be enriched with lime, watered regularly, and planted according to the soil type.
Siliceous soil is difficult to cultivate. It must be enriched with lime, watered regularly, and planted according to the soil type.
How can you identify siliceous soil?
Like loamy soil, siliceous soil is found only in a few regions. In France, siliceous soil is found in Brittany and the Massif Central. It can be recognized by its baked and parched appearance. If the soil in your garden gives off heat when the temperature rises, it is definitely siliceous soil.
In France, siliceous soil is found in Brittany and the Massif Central. It can be recognized by its baked and parched appearance. If the soil in your garden gives off heat as the temperature rises, it is definitely siliceous soil.
In France, siliceous soil is found in Brittany and the Massif Central. It can be recognized by its baked and parched appearance. If the soil in your garden gives off heat as the temperature rises, it is definitely siliceous soil.
