Katie
Extreme weather, such as heavy rainfall, is forecast to become more frequent due to climate change, as this past month has well and truly shown us. July 2023 was one of the wettest months on record for certain parts of the UK.
We all know plants love rain and rainwater has many known benefits in the garden over tap water. Its pH is lower—which plants prefer—and it also contains higher levels of Nitrogen and Oxygen for promoting healthy, happy growth. But it is possible to have too much of a good thing - excess rain can leave parts of our gardens prone to flooding which so many plants and trees cannot withstand.
It is becoming more important than ever to adapt our outdoor spaces to survive the effects of climate change. Fortunately, we know a few trees that not only do well in wet soil but also reduce the risk of flooding by absorbing excess moisture. Turn a difficult section of damp garden into something more useful with these water-loving trees:
Betula nigra 'Heritage' | River Birch tree
This beautiful River Birch tree loves wet areas and is admired for its shaggy, peeling bark. Its diamond-shaped leaves are a lush green in the summer and will transform into a lovely golden colour in the autumn. Make the most of this tree’s high tolerance to damp by planting alongside a garden pond. Once fully established Betula nigra 'Heritage' will also tolerate less moist areas.
Betula nigra 'Heritage'
Betula nigra 'Heritage'
Salix integra 'Hakuro-Nishiki' | Flamingo Dwarf Willow Tree
This delightful tree is nicknamed ‘Flamingo’ Willow as well as 'Shrimp' Willow for its soft, pink-coloured leaves that emerge in spring. As the season progresses the leaves become more variegated with shades of cream and mottled green. It prefers a damp site and is particularly suited for planting next to ponds. It is also popular as a patio plant with its charming lollipop-shaped crown, although a good watering regime is required if potted.
Flamingo Dwarf Willow
Flamingo Dwarf Willow
Alnus glutinosa 'Imperialis' | Cut Leaved Alder Tree
Alnus glutinosa 'Imperialis' loves wet soils and is even capable of withstanding waterlogged ground. Our Cut Leaved Alder can also help other plants to grow - when planted in the ground, this tree hosts nitrogen fixing bacterium beneath the soil which improves its fertility and supports the growth of other plants.
Cut Leaved Alder
Cut Leaved Alder
Salix integra Pendula | Waterfall Weeping Willow tree
Salix integra Pendula is a lovely Willow tree nicknamed ‘Waterfall’ for the cascading form of its pendulous branches. Its bright green leaves are slightly twisted and accompany slender catkins in the spring. Like all Willows, this tree prefers moist soil. As a dwarf variety it is smaller than other Willows, making it an ideal solution for those seeking elegance in a damp site with limited space.
Nyssa sylvatica | Black Tupelo | Black Gum tree
This ornamental tree is native to eastern regions of North America and is often found in swampy areas. Over the centuries Nyssa sylvatica has been introduced to European gardens and is generally better suited than Japanese Maples to damp conditions. As such, this tree is an ideal solution for those looking to incorporate a haze of autumn colour into a wetter site. The blazing hues of our Black Gum tree’s autumn foliage look particularly spectacular when reflected in the surface of a neighbouring stream.
Betula nigra 'Black Star' | River Birch tree
This is one of the best River Birch trees for interesting bark with its rugged display of papery pinks and browns. Providing year-round appeal, its tactile bark evolves with age to create more variety in colour. Betula nigra ‘Black Star’ prefers a moist to wet soil and is perfect for adding interest to a tricky damp spot.
