ferns and woodland flowers.
Freely draining soil is essential so if you have a clay garden you may need to put in extra drainage. The site will also need to be cleared of perennial weeds.
Don't just position your stone randomly, think hard about the design of your rock garden.
Boldness works well so make it as large as possible and do not position it near formal areas such as rose gardens and bedding displays.
If you use limestone or sandstone they will have clearly defined strata lines so position the rocks with these lines lying horizontally, as you'd see them in their natural environment.
Once you have the rocks in place don't rush to plant. Leave the garden for a couple of weeks, giving the soil time to settle.
When considering which plants to use remember that the rock garden offers a range of habitats for different specimens.
Vertical crevices are perfect for rosetted plants such as saxifrages and lewisias which dislike water sitting around their necks, while level areas suit bulbs and upright perennials like aquilegias and primulas.
Mat-formers like thyme also favour flat surfaces and are particularly effective tumbling over the rocks.
You can also use spot plants like dwarf shrubs and conifers but it is best to limit the number as they can overwhelm a scheme.
Do not overcrowd plants and remember that mat-formers will spread vigorously. For the crevices use small, young plants that will easily fit the tiny spaces.
Make sure there is sufficient soil in the crevice, then gently squeeze in the plant at a tilted angle with the roots pointing downward.
When planting is completed mulch the surface with 2cm of horticultural grit.
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