Top 5 Low-Maintenance Perennials for Clay, Slightly Acidic Soils in Richmond, VA

I’ve been thinking a lot this week about the future of our property and our farm. Despite living here for three years with an explosive passion for gardening and landscaping, it is still very much a blank canvas. Often I find myself in analysis paralysis trying to figure out what plants will paint the prettiest Monet-inspired picture one day. When I am old and grey (well more grey than I already am haha), I want my garden to be full and lush and a place of refuge. So I have been thinking about perennials that I can format in a garden/landscape type setting rather than traditional farm rows that are both beautiful and serve the purpose of being cut flowers for the farm as well.

Gardening in the Richmond, VA region, means dealing with clay and slightly acidic soils. Here are five hardy perennials that will thrive in these conditions, providing beautiful blooms year after year with minimal care. Plus, I've included some varietal suggestions to help you get started.

1. Peonies

Of course, I can’t resist mentioning peonies! I am a peony farmer after all! Once established, peonies require little care and can live for over 100 years! Peonies are resilient and can adapt to various soil types, including clay. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH and need well-drained soil to prevent root rot.

Easy to Find and Inexpensive Varietal Suggestions:

• Sarah Bernhardt: Known for its large, fragrant pink blooms.

• Karl Rosenfield: Features striking, double red flowers.

• Festiva Maxima: Boasts white flowers with red flecks.

  Note: This isn’t my cat. Just thought the photo was cute.😺

2. Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas thrive in slightly acidic soils, making them a perfect fit for Richmond gardens. While they prefer well-drained soil, they can tolerate clay if it is amended with organic matter to improve drainage. Also, be sure to situate them in a place where they are protected from the afternoon sun otherwise, they will be susceptible to burning. Pruning hydrangeas can be tricky, but these varietals you can’t mess up!

• Varietal Suggestions:

  • Annabelle: Produces large, white flower heads and is very hardy. Blooms on new wood.

  • Endless Summer: Known for its ability to bloom on both old and new wood. Blooms on both old and new wood so no worries with pruning!

  • Limelight: Features lime-green flowers that turn pink in the fall. Blooms on new wood.

3. Coneflowers (Echinacea purpurea)

Coneflowers are highly adaptable and can grow in clay soils. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Their drought tolerance makes them a low-maintenance option.

• Varietal Suggestions:

  • Magnus: Offers vibrant, purple-pink petals with orange centers.

  • PowWow Wild Berry: Compact variety with deep magenta flowers. Really any in the PowWow series are great.

  • White Swan: Features elegant white petals with a yellow center. This is blooming now in my garden.

4. Daylilies (Hemerocallis)

Daylilies are known for their versatility and can thrive in a range of soil types, including clay. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH and require minimal care once established, making them ideal for busy gardeners. The Hanover Master Gardener Association has daylily’s for sale at the Horticultural Learning Center located in Ashland, VA. I am unsure of varietal availability, but know that it is diverse.

• Varietal Suggestions that Rebloom throughout the season:

  • Stella de Oro: A popular golden-yellow choice because of its reblooming habit.

  • Purple de Oro: Features rich, purple flowers with a yellow throat.

  • Strawberry Candy: Offers pinkish-coral blooms with a red eye zone and golden throat 📷: American Meadows

5. Black-Eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta)

Black-Eyed Susans are tough plants that thrive in a variety of soil conditions, including clay. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH and are drought-tolerant once established. Their bright yellow flowers add a cheerful touch to any garden.

• Varietal Suggestions:

  • Goldsturm: Renowned for its large, golden-yellow flowers and long bloom time.

  • Indian Summer: Produces very large, bright yellow blooms.

  • Cherokee Sunset: Offers a mix of colors, including yellow, orange, and mahogany.

Incorporating these low-maintenance perennials into your Richmond/Ashland garden can save you time and effort while ensuring a stunning and sustainable bloom season. Start planting today and enjoy a beautiful garden suited to our local soil conditions! Or if it is just way too hot, peruse catalogs and the internet like I am and make a plan for what’s going in this Fall!

Until next time, Flower Friends!

Keep Blooming,

Nicole Dillon

Breemar Flower Farm | Ashland, VA | Zone 7b