Wherever you live, it’s a good idea to be aware of moisture-loving plants - even if you're currently going through a dry spell like we are at the moment in most of the UK! This means plants that genuinely enjoy soils that become waterlogged easily… No rain macs required!
Plants that are tolerant of moist conditions have evolved specific adaptations that allow them to survive - and even thrive - in environments where water is abundant and the soil can be saturated. These plants often have shallow but wide-spreading roots to take advantage of oxygen near the surface, since waterlogged soils have less air. Some also develop aerenchyma (specialised air spaces in roots and stems) to help transport oxygen from above-ground parts to the roots; others have anaerobic respiration capabilities, meaning their roots can function with little to no oxygen, at least temporarily.
While they may grow well in wet conditions, many of these plants have mechanisms to control water uptake, helping them avoid becoming waterlogged internally.
If you live in an area with high rainfall, or you just have a damp spot in your garden, here are some ideas for moisture-loving plants.
Hydrangea! These plants are so thirsty that they’ll put up with wet feet for short periods of time! The macrophylla types are the ones to choose, they’re architectural, easy to grow, free-flowering and enjoy sun or dappled shade. Here’s a few beauts to get wet with!
‘Glam Rock’, formerly known as ‘Schloss Wackerbarth’, you can understand why the name change!!
‘King George’ is pink on alkaline, blue on acid!
Chelsea star ‘Miss Saori’ keeps it colour on whichever soil you grow it in.
Now we know Iris enjoy wet soils, but which ones really love a paddle?? Well, it’s the sublime Iris sibirica series! Here’s a super sparkly variety named ‘Concord Crush’, which has so many petals it doesn’t know what to do with itself- the result being a delightfully crested bloom!
Another hardy perennial that is a big fan of getting moist is Astilbe- with it’s theatrical plumage. It’s hard not to chuckle at the word plumage too, isn’t it! My Nana used to have big clumps of Astilbe, and I hardly knew anyone else that grew it. To be honest, it’s still the same today. Come on, let’s make it trendy!
Lastly, let’s look at bedding! Whilst not enjoying over-wet situations, Begonias will stay shiny and keep flowing throughout all manner of rain showers, so make sure you choose some for your summer display!
Begonia ‘Lotto’ offers landscape style coverage!
Begonia ‘Patio Apricot Shades’ is big and bouncy!
Begonia ‘Cocoa Enchantment’ is modern and contemporary!
What are your favourite moisture-lovjng plants? Let me know in the comments below!