Bog gardening may be accomplished not only near a pond but also in something that you may already have, such as an area that is constantly wet year around. It should be an area that is depressed and that catches water or an area into which water drains. If you have clay soil, it won't take much to establish the bog state. However, if you have a sandy soil, you will need to excavate the area a couple of feet below the surface.
After excavation, add a five-inch layer of stones and a medium of half loam and half peat moss or leaf mold. You'll also need to provide constant moisture to the area, especially during the summer.
Whether you have clay or sand, you will want to use stepping stones or boards in the design in order to reach the plants.
You may be surprised at the number of plants that will grow in this environment. Following is a short list of plants and websites that list many more:
- Canna (Canna)
- Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
- Horsetail (Equisetum hyemale)
- Iris/yellow flag (Iris pseudacorus)
- Marsh marigold (Caltha palustris)
- Umbrella palm (Cyperus alternifolius)
The following website from Texas Cooperative Extension has a good list of bog plants:
Water Garden Plants
Linda R. Sharp, Smith County Master Gardener
Texas Cooperative Extension
Landscape Index
Gardening Tips For NorthEast Texas Index
East Texas Piney Woods Gardening Home Page