Chronically Wet Flower Beds: Plant Selection Over Soil Fixes

Susan's east and south fence beds stay constantly wet despite added organic matter. Clay soil, new home, four years in. She wants the soil to dry out.

Work With the Water, Not Against It

If drainage can't be improved (no outlet, high water table), the best solution is planting water-loving species. They'll transpire excess moisture and thrive.

Recommended Plants for Wet Sites

• Virginia Sweetspire (Itea virginica)
• Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)
• River Birch (Betula nigra)
• Sweetbay Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana)
• Yellow Flag Iris (Iris pseudacorus)
• Sweet Flag (Acorus calamus)

Check with a local nursery for zone-appropriate selections. These plants turn a liability into an asset.