How to Plant in High Water Table

Having a high water table can be a real challenge for gardeners. It can cause waterlogging, root rot, and even drown your plants. However, it is still possible to grow a beautiful and healthy garden in such conditions. Here are some tips on how to plant in a high water table area:

1. Choose the right plants

The first and most important step when gardening in a high water table area is to choose plants that can tolerate wet conditions. Some common options include:

Marsh marigold

Lobelia

Cattails

Juncus grass

Iris

Elephant ear

Hosta

Daylilies

These are just a few examples, but there are many more species that can thrive in wet soils. Consult with your local nursery to get a list of plants that are best for your area.

2. Improve soil drainage

If your soil has poor drainage, it's important to improve it before planting. Here are some techniques to try:

Add compost: Adding compost can increase soil porosity and help with drainage.

Install French drains: French drains are trenches filled with gravel and a perforated pipe that helps drain excess water away from your plants.

Elevate planting beds: Raised planting beds can provide better drainage and are a great option if you have heavy clay soils.

3. Build a rain garden

A rain garden is a landscape feature that captures and filters rainwater from hard surfaces such as roofs and driveways. It's a great way to reduce runoff and manage excess water in a high water table area. Here are some tips to designing and building a rain garden:

Choose the location: Look for a low spot in your yard where water tends to collect.

Size and shape: The size and shape of your rain garden will depend on the amount of runoff it will receive. As a general rule, it should be about one-third the size of the impervious surface draining into it.

Plant selection: Choose plants that can thrive in varying degrees of wetness but also don't mind periods of dryness. Native plants are often a good choice.

Berms: Build a berm around the outside of your rain garden to prevent water from flowing out and to direct water towards the garden.

4. Use mulch

A layer of mulch can help retain soil moisture and prevent erosion in high water table areas. It also helps regulate soil temperature and suppress weed growth. Use a high-quality organic mulch such as shredded bark or leaf mould, and apply it to a depth of 2-3 inches.

5. Avoid compaction

Compacting the soil can make it harder for water to move through it, leading to waterlogging and root rot. Avoid walking or working in wet soil, and use boards or other supports to distribute your weight when you need to access your garden.

By following these tips, you can successfully plant in a high water table area and enjoy a beautiful and thriving garden. Remember to always choose the right plants, improve your soil drainage, build a rain garden, use mulch, and avoid compaction.