Planting Pockets in Paving: Adding Plants to Patios and Paths
Planting pockets in paving are small gaps in a patio or path filled with soil plus a low plant. They soften hard surfaces while the rest of the paving stays in use.
The short answer
Oregon State University Extension describes a paver base of crushed rock with a sand bed on top. A pocket swaps that base for soil. UF IFAS in Sarasota advises working 1 to 3 inches of compost into the soil. NC State lists santolina for full sun, sandy soil plus dry spells.
What are planting pockets in paving?
They are open spots left by a missing or lifted paver. OSU notes pavers sit on 4 to 6 inches of base plus 1 inch of sand. Roots need that gravel dug out.
| Plant trait | Why it fits | Source note |
|---|---|---|
| Full sun | Paving heats up | NC State: santolina |
| Sandy soil | Drains fast | NC State: santolina |
| Dry spells | Small soil volume | NC State: drought tolerant |
| Low height | Stays out of the way | NC State: about 1 foot |
Source: NC State Extension Plant Toolbox.
Which plants grow well in paving gaps?
NC State notes santolina is good in small areas with good drought tolerance. It wants six hours of sun or more plus sandy, well drained soil.
How do you prepare a planting pocket?
UF IFAS in Sarasota advises 1 to 3 inches of finished compost worked in 3 to 4 inches deep. K State notes paths should have even surfaces, so set pockets away from main foot traffic.
How to: step by step
- Choose gaps away from main foot traffic.
- Lift a paver or leave a space open.
- Dig out the gravel plus sand below.
- Fill with soil plus finished compost.
- Add a low sun lover.
- Water often while roots settle.
Troubleshooting
Plants dry fast: shallow pocket. Dig deeper plus mix in compost.
Crushed plants: busy spot. Shift pockets to edges.
Yellow leaves after planting: unfinished compost. Use finished compost.
Read garden microclimates, planning an outdoor garden layout plus companion plants. Kind Seed Co also stocks cannabis seeds.
Sources
- 10 step guide to installing pavers, Oregon State University Extension Service
- Santolina chamaecyparissus (lavender cotton), NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
- How to use compost, UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County
- Down the garden path, K-State Research and Extension, Johnson County
FAQ
Can herbs grow in paving pockets?
NC State lists santolina, an aromatic herb, as good in small areas. It needs full sun plus sandy soil with good drainage.
How much compost goes in a pocket?
UF IFAS in Sarasota advises 1 to 3 inches of compost worked into the soil about 3 to 4 inches deep.
Why did my pocket plant turn yellow?
UF IFAS notes unfinished compost can stress plants, causing them to yellow, as microbes compete for nitrogen.
Do pockets need drainage?
OSU notes paving should slope so water runs off. A pocket filled with soil plus compost lets water soak in at that spot.
Should pocket plants be fed often?
NC State advises avoiding excess fertilizer on santolina. Prune it after it flowers.
