Managing a flooded garden

Are you grappling with clay soil that traps water or living in a flood-prone area? Fear not! My blog unveils actionable steps and resilient plant choices to rejuvenate your waterlogged garden into a lush paradise.

Waterlogged garden - Cobham large draina

Understanding soil types:

Clay soil holds water but lacks drainage, while sandy soil drains quickly yet struggles to retain moisture. Loamy soil offers a balance, providing good drainage and moisture retention.

What action you can take to prevent flooding?

• Improve drainage: Installing French drains or soakaway pits can redirect excess water away from your garden. Raised beds or mounded areas can also aid drainage.
  

• Break up compacted soil: Aerating your soil with compost or well-rotted manure can enhance its structure and drainage capabilities.
  

• Create swales or berms: These landscape features help redirect and contain water, preventing it from pooling in low-lying areas.
  

• Install permeable surfaces: Opt for materials like gravel or permeable concrete for paths and patios to allow water to infiltrate the soil.
  

• Invest in a pump: For persistent flooding, consider investing in a reliable submersible pump. Look for features like a robust build, adequate pumping capacity, and automatic shut-off to prevent damage. Brands like Kärcher, Clarke, or Einhell offer quality options suitable for residential use.

Which plants are more resilient to a waterlogged environment?

Opt for species that thrive in wet conditions:

• Bog Plants: Marsh Marigold, Canna Lilies, Japanese Iris.

• Water-Loving Trees: Willow, Alder, Birch.

• Moisture-Tolerant Shrubs: Hydrangeas, Elderberry, Dogwood.

• Perennials with Water-Resistant Roots: Astilbe, Hostas, Ferns.

With these strategies and plant selections, your waterlogged garden can become a lush sanctuary. Turn adversity into opportunity in your outdoor haven. Happy gardening!

Choosing the right time to call in Flourish Landscaping:

While DIY solutions can be effective, it's essential to know when to seek professional help. Consider calling in experts if:

• Waterlogging persists despite efforts.

• Uncertain about the best drainage solutions.

• Risk to structures or plants.

• Dealing with complex issues like groundwater seepage.

The Flourish Landcaping team has plenty of experience addressing flooding issues in water-logged gardens. Find out more about the large drainage project we carried out in Cobham or contact us if you need our help sorting out your garden drainage.