Hello Everyone.

[Taz Devil]

I'm not a gardener as such, what I joined up here for was some advice and info for growing a few plants for the stick insects I keep.

The plants I want info about are:-

Bramble (blackberry)
Ivy
Privet

what sort of soil is required to plant each.

I have a small front garden (about 8' x 8') where I am happy to plant privet, but I would like to know if there is any way to get quick leaf growth while in pots.

I have a wall already set aside for the bramble, and I already have ivy, but I am still awaiting some info as to what type of ivy is best for stick insects.

The closest I have come to growing anything is when I was at school and placed carrot tops into saucers of water. :-)

[Two_Sheds]

what sort of soil is required to plant each.

allotment soil! I've got them all over mine (ivy and bramble, not privet).

[Taz Devil]

I have a bag of horse generated fertiliser ready to dig into the soil next to the wall.

The soil in my garden is dark with what looks like ash, small coke like lumps, in it, so I was wondering if it's still good to grow privet in or should I remove a few inches from the top and invest in some good top soil.

[HeyWayne]

I'm pretty sure bramble and ivy will grow almost anywhere. It's prolific along the side of our house.

Not sure about privet I'm afraid.

[Flummery]

They will all grow like weeds anywhere - don't need special soil or expensive treatment.