Turn a Swampy Yard into a Bog Garden

Low-Cost, High-Reward Solution

If drainage is moderate, create a dry riverbed with stones/logs to channel water. For persistent wet spots, build a bog garden—it's beautiful, supports wildlife, and solves the problem.

Bog Garden Plants

• Iris, gunnera, ornamental grasses
• Watercress, cranberries, arums
• Reeds, rushes, astilbe, hosta, ferns
• Willows (keep away from pipes!)

Resources

Search "bog garden" for soil prep guides (different from regular beds). Pond-edge plants also work. Expect birds, frogs, and pollinators.