Top Picks for Wet Soil Ground Covers: Professionals Advise These 5 Choices for Moist, Marshy Gardens
Homeowners with excess moisture in their yards no longer need to worry about the upkeep of their garden. Instead of trying to improve the soil quality, consider planting moisture-loving species that will flourish in damp conditions.
While some plants struggle in wet soil, such as herbs like lavender and rosemary, there are several options that thrive in bog or marsh-like environments. To ensure a successful planting, choose species that are native to marshlands and woodlands.
Professional gardeners recommend planting the right species for the specific conditions you are working with. By selecting plants that are suited to damp soil, you can save both time and money while avoiding disappointment.
Fortunately, there are numerous ground cover plants that are perfect for wet soil, filling large swathes of the garden without struggle. Here are five of the best options to try in your plot this year:
1. Foamflower
As one of the best full-shade perennials, the foamflower (Tiarella spp.) thrives in damp spots. This North American native brings whimsical beauty to shady, damp gardens and can be grown in US hardiness zones 3 to 9. In milder areas, its foliage will remain evergreen, adding year-round interest to borders.
2. Ferns
There are over 10,000 known species of ferns, and many of these, like the maidenhair fern, thrive in dark, damp environments. They are generally very low maintenance and require limited care to flourish in damp soil. As native green options, ferns are an excellent choice for wet areas.
3. Carex
Known for their adaptability, plants from the sedge family, such as Carex 'Everillo', can handle wet, shady areas well. Native to Japan, this tough ornamental grass can be planted down to zone 5 and thrives in damp conditions with partial to full shade.
4. Daylily
The Stella d'Oro daylily (Hemerocallis 'Stella d'Oro') is another good option for wet soil. This vibrant ditch plant grows almost anywhere, from dry soil to riverbanks, shady corners to sun-drenched borders. It offers yellow blooms and grass-like foliage, withstanding wet conditions down to zone 3, preferring partial to full sun.
5. Candelabra Primulas
Candelabra primulas are perfect for damp and soggy soils. These colorful, low-growing blooms are ideal for almost any area with high moisture levels, including near ponds or in low-lying areas. They grow best in either full sun or part shade, with consistently moist soil, and will thrive for many years with minimal care.
Before planting in spring or fall, be sure to select the appropriate species for your specific location and soil type. By choosing species that are suited to wet conditions, you can create a beautiful, low-maintenance garden that will flourish for years to come.
Indoor plants can significantly enhance one's lifestyle, creating a serene home-and-garden atmosphere. For individuals with a penchant for gardening, there's a wide array of moisture-loving species that can thrive in indoor conditions, such as ferns and carex, which appreciate consistently moist soil and partial to full shade.
