Managing a flooded garden

What causes garden flooding and what you can do about it.


Are you grappling with clay soil around Kingston area that traps water or living in a flood-prone area giving you a flooded garden

Fear not! My blog unveils actionable steps and resilient plant choices to rejuvenate your waterlogged garden into a lush paradise.

Understanding soil types:

Clay soil holds water but lacks drainage, while sandy soil drains quickly yet struggles to retain moisture. Loamy soil offers a balance, providing good drainage and moisture retention.

What action you can take to prevent flooding?

  • Improve drainage: Installing French drains or soakaway pits can redirect excess water away from your garden. Raised beds or mounded areas can also aid drainage.
  • Break up compacted soil: Aerating your soil with compost or well-rotted manure can enhance its structure and drainage capabilities.
  • Create swales or berms: These landscape features help redirect and contain water, preventing it from pooling in low-lying areas.
  • Install permeable surfaces: Opt for materials like gravel or permeable concrete for paths and patios to allow water to infiltrate the soil.
  • Invest in a pump: For persistent flooding, consider investing in a reliable submersible pump. Look for features like a robust build, adequate pumping capacity, and automatic shut-off to prevent damage. Brands like Kärcher, Clarke, or Einhell offer quality options suitable for residential use.

Which plants are more resilient to a waterlogged environment?

Opt for species that thrive in wet conditions:

  • Bog Plants: Marsh Marigold, Canna Lilies, Japanese Iris.
  • Water-Loving Trees: Willow, Alder, Birch.
  • Moisture-Tolerant Shrubs: Hydrangeas, Elderberry, Dogwood.
  • Perennials with Water-Resistant Roots: Astilbe, Hostas, Ferns.

With these strategies and plant selections, your waterlogged garden can become a lush sanctuary. Turn adversity into opportunity in your outdoor haven. Happy gardening!

Choosing the right time to call in Flourish Landscaping:

While DIY solutions can be effective, it’s essential to know when to seek professional help. Consider calling in experts if:

  • Waterlogging persists despite no efforts.
  • Uncertain about the best drainage solutions.
  • Risk to structures or plants.
  • Dealing with complex issues like groundwater seepage.

Let’s create your perfect garden

The Flourish Landcaping team has plenty of experience addressing flooding issues in water-logged gardens. Find out more about the large drainage project we carried out in Cobham or contact us if you need our help sorting out your garden drainage.

Contact us today to arrange a consultation and start transforming your garden into the perfect outdoor space for you and your family.

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