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Have Wet Soil? No Problem!

by Amanda

Do you have a hard-to-plant area that has poorly-draining soil?

Turn this troublesome spot into a colorful landscape feature by planting Perennials and Bulbs that thrive in wet soil. Whether you have an area with runoff from a roof or an area next to a body of water, there are plenty of options for you to turn this into a gorgeous focal point of your garden!

Perennials That Thrive in Wet Soil

There are several varieties of perennials that not only tolerate wet soil but also create a burst of color all season long, year after year in the garden. Siberian Irises are one of the easiest Iris to grow and are extremely hardy, making them a dependable plant for any wet spot.

Bonus: These exquisite Irises also attract butterflies to the garden!

Additional Moisture-loving Perennials

  • Ligularia The Rocket is a great choice for moist, shady gardens and illuminates with bright yellow flower spikes that attract hummingbirds.
  • Spiderworts are hybridized from a wildflower with the wild form of this unique three-petaled flower usually purple. The foliage is lily-like, forming a clump of glossy green. They naturally grow along streams, so give them plenty of water and some shade.
  • Hydrangeas are famous for their large, ball-shaped blooms that add elegance and charm to the summer garden. They can also be planted in wet soil.
  • Hardy Hibiscus are extremely easy to grow. All they ask for is full sun, decent soil, and some pruning once in a while. They leaf out very late in spring, so don't think they're dead and chop them down. Be patient, and in a few weeks you'll have attractive foliage and soon thereafter a summer full of spectacular blooms that attract hummingbirds and butterflies.

Bulbs that Thrive in Wet Soil

Many Summer-Blooming Bulbs tolerate wet soil and add unique, gorgeous color and foliage to the garden. If you're in an area that doesn't receive frost, these bulbs will act as perennials. However, if you receive hard frost during your cold months, you'll want to dig them up for the winter.

Learn more about how to store your bulbs over the winter

Elephant Ear Bulbs create a dramatic, whimsical look both planted in the garden and in containers. Huge, unique foliage is beautiful on its own or planted as a backdrop for your favorite blooms.

Canna Lily Bulbs ignite the late season garden with huge, boldly-colored blooms that last for weeks and weeks. These beauties are also extremely easy to grow.

Calla Lily Bulbs are another gorgeous choice, thriving in wet soil and creating an elegant statement both in the garden and cut for summer bouquets.

This season, turn that poorly-draining spot on your property into the fabulous garden that it deserves to be!