Plants that need little soil: a complete guide for gardeners with limited space

Posted On:

Categories: Mary´s Advice ,

Author: Adrián Medina Alarcón

You would like to grow plants at home... but you have little space.

Maybe you have shallow, or rocky soil.

Or you don't have a garden at all (not even a terrace!) and you have to manage to grow your plants with just a few pots.

If so, this article is perfect for you.

And here we have made a list of plants that require little land and/or little space.

There is everything: climbers, plants that adapt to shallow substrates... even a plant that doesn't need any soil!

But let's not get ahead of ourselves and go see them.

11 plants that need little soil

We start with a very special…

1. Tillandsia (Tillandsia spp.)


Tillandsias are unique air plants that do not require soil to grow.

They can be placed anywhere that offers good air circulation and can be mounted on objects such as wood, stone or shells. Sprinkle water on them regularly to keep them hydrated.

2. Echeveria (Echeveria)


Echeveria is a succulent plant that is characterized by its rosette shape with fleshy leaves and vibrant colors. This plant is a popular choice for gardens with limited space due to its visual appeal and ability to grow in minimal substrates.

Echeveria care is relatively simple. Water the plant moderately, making sure the substrate dries out between waterings. Place it in a location with bright indirect sunlight to keep its colors vibrant. In addition, it is important to provide a substrate with good drainage to prevent excess moisture in the roots.

3. Dwarf Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum)


Dwarf Chrysanthemums are an excellent option to add color and elegance to your garden with little use of land.

These compact flowers bloom in autumn, providing beautiful decoration in a season when many gardens lack color.

Caring for Dwarf Chrysanthemums includes making sure they have access to adequate sunlight and a well-drained substrate.

Prune spent flowers regularly to encourage continued healthy growth. These plants are ideal for pots and small gardens due to their compact size and minimal soil requirements.

4. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)


Thyme is a popular aromatic herb that adapts well to limited spaces and is therefore an excellent choice for those with little space in their garden or in pots. Its small green leaves and fragrance make thyme a valuable addition to any garden or kitchen.

To care for thyme, make sure the substrate is well-drained and provide it with direct sunlight for at least six hours a day.

Thyme is hardy and drought tolerant, so it does not require frequent watering. Plus, you can harvest its leaves to use in a variety of dishes, which makes this plant even more interesting.

5. Calla lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica)


Calla lily is an ornamental plant appreciated for its elegant green leaves and funnel-shaped flowers. These plants thrive in well-drained substrates and need moderate watering.

They are ideal for small gardens and pots.

6. Ivy (Hedera helix)


Ivy is a climbing plant that is perfect for covering walls or vertical spaces.

It adapts to different light and soil conditions, making it versatile and low maintenance. Once established, it requires little watering.

7. Sage (Salvia officinalis)


Salvia is an aromatic herb that thrives in poor, rocky substrates. It is drought resistant and needs direct sunlight. Its leaves are commonly used in cooking to flavor a variety of dishes.

8. Portulaca (Portulaca grandiflora)


Portulaca is a succulent plant with vibrant flowers that thrives in sandy, dry substrates. It is ideal for rock gardens or as a ground cover in small spaces. It needs full sun and occasional watering.

9. Jasmine (Jasminum spp.)


Jasmine is known for its fragrant aroma and beautiful white or yellow flowers. It can grow in pots or in the ground and adapts well to limited spaces. Jasmine requires a well-drained substrate, direct sunlight and moderate watering to bloom in all its splendor.

10. Wisteria (Wisteria spp.)


Wisteria is a spectacular vine that produces hanging clusters of blue or purple flowers.

Despite its lush appearance, this plant can thrive with minimal space. Requires direct sunlight and occasional pruning to maintain its shape and health.

11. Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spp.)


Bougainvillea is a climbing plant that is characterized by its bright and striking colored bracts, which surround its small flowers. It is resistant and adapts well to poor substrates.

Bougainvillea needs full sunlight and occasional watering to stay healthy and blooming abundantly.