In areas that stay wet for extended periods of time , it is important to select plants that tolerate soggy conditions .
Native wetland plants have adapted over thousands of years to these arduous conditions , and this garden celebrates these unique challenges . Altering our perspective of these environments allows us to see that wet areas provide habitat and breeding grounds for birds , insects , mammals , and plants . Plants in these areas assist with filtration and improved water quality , floodwater storage , flood attenuation , and erosion control . In this partial shade to full shade garden for wet soil , the open form and fragrant red blooms of the Carolina allspice create a backdrop along the higher ground , while the button bush with the unique ball shaped flowers drifts into wetter areas . The dwarf palmetto and needle palm add an evergreen accent as the mass of upright inland sea oats and their distinctive oat like seed heads dance amongst the grouping of cinnamon and sensitive ferns . These large , coarse textured ferns create a dense background accentuating the shiny green fronds of the southern wood fern , delicate blue flowers of the blue eyed grass , and fine texture of the creek sedge .
* This garden is ideal for places in the landscape that tend to be wet several days ( or more ) after a significant rain event . You can test the drainage of an area by digging a hole 6 ” deep and 6 ” around . Make sure you wait at least 48 hours after rain has fallen . Fill the hole with water , and time how long it takes to completely drain . If there is still water in the hole after 24 hours , you should use plants like these that can tolerate wet feet .
* Larger companion plant material could include maples , bald cypress , and wax myrtles . The larger plant material is not included in this selected garden mix , but could be incorporated if desired .
* Partial shade refer to areas of your garden that receive between four hours and six hours of sun each day . If your plant calls for partial shade , it will do better at the lower end of this sun exposure scale . Full shade refers to areas in your garden that receive fewer than four hours of sun each day . Most plants that call for full shade will grow faster and flower better if they receive at least 2 hours of direct sun .
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