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Gardening blog

Craig Davis

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.

Flooded garden in Cobham
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.

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