Growing conditions in Canberra can be extreme. Canberra is typically hot and dry in summer, and wet and cold in Winter.  Canberra is also known for its clay soils but there are several different soil types in Canberra, from shale-based clays to alkaline clays and non-alkaline clays.  Many gardens also have improved soils which will have bought in soils added to their natural soil.

Soil type and conditions can be a problem when growing native plants but their is always plenty of choice.  Alkaline soils will limit the choice of Proteaceae species such as Grevilleas, Banksias, Hakeas, etc.  But most of the other species will be fine, for example, Acacia, Callistemon, Correa, Crowea, Westringia, Leptospermum, Melaleuca and most daisies.

Even more important than soil type is creating drainage in your garden beds.  This is easily achieved by creating mounded garden beds whenever possible.  Clay is not a bad thing.  It holds nutrients which can feed plants. But in many cases, having additional drainage in the top 150mm - 300mm will improve the chances of success with native plants that are not tolerant of heavy soils.

When you come into the nursery, we can help show you a range of plants that will be suitable for your soil type to help you minimise failures.