Pacific Northwest Gardening: Soil and Garden Question, 1 by _Nadine

_Nadine wrote:
Hello Pacific Northwest Gardeners!

How can I tell if my soil is clay/sandy/normal/acidic? I think it is safe to assume it is not sandy but the rest I'm not sure about. I was doing a search on the Bluestone Perennials for groundcovers that are deer resistant, dry tolerant, for part sun/shade but I don't know what to select for soil type.

Also, do any of you have suggestions for groundcovers fitting the above? I have heard that geraniums (low to ground type) would work. I've included a photo of the area from 2 years ago. The deer have eaten some of the flowers and a few haven't come back. That could be because I'm so inept at gardening though!

Any help would be most appreciated!