A swampy or low yard can be tough to garden. Many types of plants give way to rot and fungal infections where there is too much moisture in the soil. A natural garden with wetland shrubs and perennials is a good option for these tricky spots. If you enjoy a lot of color, you can find moisture-loving annuals for moist gardens and beds as well.
Are There Really Annuals That Like Wet Soil?
Gardeners generally avoid wet soil and standing water. Most plants will get soggy roots and become susceptible to root rot in too much moisture. This is especially true for many annuals, which often come from dry regions like the Mediterranean or California.
While excessive moisture is one of the more difficult issues to find annuals to tolerate, it is possible. There are, in fact, wet tolerant annual flowers that thrive in these conditions. Make sure these plants still get plenty of sun to help them grow and bloom, though.
What Annuals Like Wet Soil?
Below is a list of annuals that will tolerate extra moisture but not necessarily thrive in soaked ground or standing water:
- Impatiens: Impatiens is a classic annual flower that not only tolerates moist soil but also shady areas.
- Forget-me-nots: Forget-me-nots do well in a shady, moist area but can be vulnerable to downy mildew.
- Foxglove: Foxglove flowers prefer plenty of sun but will tolerate moisture.
- Spider flower: Named for the spidery looking blooms that add a tropical look, spider flowers like full sun and do well with moderate moisture if planted in well-drained soil.
- Nasturtium: Nasturtiums are easy-to-grow annuals that can grow in partial shade but will not bloom as well.
- Pansies: Pansy flowers thrive in moist soil but may be prone to problems due to overwatering.
These are some examples of moisture-loving annuals that do very well in wet soil:
- Monkey flower: The monkey flower does very well with soggy soil, producing bright flowers in varied colors and grows quickly from seed.
- Five spot: Five spot produces pretty, delicate white and blue flowers and will take a little shade with its moisture
- Limnanthes: Meadowfoam flowers are large and saucer shaped – notable varieties include mixes of yellow and white flowers.
While it is possible to find annuals for wet soil, always be on the lookout for signs of rot, mildew, or other infections.
-
Forage For Herbs: 7 Tasty And Safe Wild Herbs To Pick Close To Your Own BackyardIn addition to growing your own herbal staples, did you know there are several wild options out there that are safe and tasty – and free? Try foraging these 7 wild herbs
-
Should You Cut Back Roses In The Fall? – When To Prune Your Prized Shrubs For WinterDiscover whether to cut back roses before the onset of winter – or to leave plants alone until spring.
-
20 Hard-to-Find Spring Flowers & Plants That Look Amazing All SeasonIt’s finally beginning to look like spring! If you’re eager to find some unique, hard-to-find varietals to satisfy your spring fever, look here first.
-
How Wildflower Strips Help Attract Pollinators To Your YardIf you have a small garden spot or strip available, fill it with wildflowers for our hungry pollinators. Click to learn more.
-
10 Knockout Native Flowers To Add A Punch Of Color To Your GardenGrowing native is the way to go. See our list of ten native wildflowers that will knock you out with color.
-
Pretty Plants For A Pastel Flower BouquetRoses aren’t the only romantic flower. Some romantic pastel flowers can fill in beautifully.
-
Soft Yellow Plants For A Sunny Pastel GardenClick here for ideas on some pale yellow flower varieties for pastel garden designs.
-
Most Common Flower Color In The WorldWhat are the most common and least common flower colors in the world? Click here to find out.
-
Pastel Plants For A Lovely, Light Purple Flower GardenClick here for ideas on some light purple plants for a pretty, pastel garden display.
-
Plant Wildflower Seeds In Fall for A Stunning Spring DisplayCan you plant wildflower seeds in fall? What makes fall the best time to sow wildflower seeds? Click here for more.
