For instance, dianthus (figure H) loves the reflected heat from the rocks it's nestled between. In contrast, a creeping thyme doesn't flourish in a similar planting. Alyssum is a great rock garden plant, but deer love it and you might find yourself having to replace it (figure I). Rocks placed around a plant insulate it just like mulch, keeping it drier on top but moist underneath, so you can water less frequently. If you still feel like you're between a rock and a hard place trying to garden in rocky soil, choose the kinds of plants that will tolerate your soil. Ask your local nursery or garden expert for the best bets. Also, know the depth of the soil that you're putting the plant into to help determine what plant size is appropriate. Using bigger potted plants in rocky soil isn't always better. The more fibrous roots found in larger potted plants often have a tougher time penetrating the hard soil. The younger, more pliable roots of this fescue (figure J) may have a better chance of getting established if they're spread out almost on top of the rocky soil.
So should you remove most rocks from the soil? "Well, sure, if you're willing to take the time to do it, and that's especially true if you're putting in a new vegetable garden,"says master gardener Paul James. "After all, vegetables are annuals and they need all the help they can get."
There are lots of ways to deal with rocky soil in the yard and garden, says James. "Either working with the rocks or around them, one thing's for sure: the less you have to dig, the happier you and your plants will be."
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