We have a community garden in South-Eastern Spain, which is perched on a rockface - there is scant soil even in the flatter areas.
We are thinking of getting some modest beds hewn out of the rock, and then using container-planted perennials to fill the hole (using large containers with modest-sized perennials to prevent roots getting overcrowded). After placing 5 or 6 of these containers in the hole, we would then back-fill what remains of the hole.
Finally, we would add a layer of weed-prevention fabric, with pebbles on the top of the whole surface area to keep the plants cool in hot weather
The plants would be spot-watered thoroughly three times a week in summer.
We were thinking of modest-sized euphorbias, cistus, californian poppies, etc. but any alternative suggestions would be gratefully received.
We "think" (though we are really uncertain about this!) that this plan will prevent water running off down the hill as quickly, and will allow the plants to flourish in some nice organic medium. We would liquid feed them in the autumn and spring.
Are we on a wild goose chase?
Any advice at all would be appreciated.