Although the majority of planting will be carried out after the rock garden has been completed, you can also create a cool, well-drained cavity for plants between two layers of stone as the rock garden is being built.

Method

1. Set the plants against a stone that has already been firmed in. Make sure that the roots lie against the rock face and that the crowns face outwards. Add a little compost around the roots and firm gently to eliminate any air pockets.
2. Place wooden battens in between the plants to protect them as the next stone is placed in position against the first, creating a planting cavity. Firm the second stone securely into place and remove the battens.
3. Infill around the stones with topsoil, making sure that they are buried to a third of their depth. Add further compost around the roots of the plants and firm in gently.
4. Finally, add a 2.5 cm (1 in) top-dressing of stone chippings, gravel or grit to create an attractive and natural finish and to improve surface drainage.