How to Plant Water Forget-Me-Not

Water forget-me-not (Myosotis scorpioides) is a beautiful and low-maintenance plant that can add an enchanting touch to any aquatic garden. With its bright blue, five-petal flowers that bloom throughout the summer and its delicate foliage, water forget-me-not can make for a stunning display when planted around ponds or streams. If you're thinking of adding this delightful plant to your aquatic garden, here's how to plant water forget-me-not.

Choose the Right Location

The first step in planting water forget-me-not is choosing the right location in your aquatic garden. Water forget-me-not plants thrive in full or partial sun and prefer nutrient-rich, consistently moist soil. These plants are well suited to growing on the edges of streams and ponds or in shallow water where the soil is saturated but not completely submerged.

Prepare the Soil

Water forget-me-not prefers soil that is rich in organic matter, so it's important to prepare the soil before planting. Begin by removing any weeds or debris from the planting area. Then, add several inches of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to the soil. Mix the organic matter into the soil to a depth of 6 inches to ensure that the soil is rich and loose, which will help stimulate root growth and improve water retention.

Plant Your Water Forget-Me-Not

Once you've chosen the right location and prepared the soil, you're ready to plant your water forget-me-not. Begin by digging a hole wide and deep enough to accommodate the plant's root ball. Gently tease apart any tangled roots and place the plant in the hole, with the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil. Pack the soil around the root ball, and water the plant well. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Care for Your Water Forget-Me-Not

Water forget-me-not is a low-maintenance plant that doesn't require much care once established. Keep the soil consistently moist by watering regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilizer is not necessary, as the plant prefers nutrient-rich soil. If the leaves start to turn yellow, it may be a sign of overwatering, in which case you should cut back on watering. Deadheading spent flowers throughout the season can encourage additional blooms.

Conclusion

Water forget-me-not is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that can add vibrant color and interest to any aquatic garden. By following these simple steps for planting water forget-me-not, you can enjoy the beauty of this enchanting plant for many seasons to come.