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Garden
Planning
How to modify growing conditions
When planning your garden site, consider the type plants you'd like to have, whether there will be sun or shade, and the level of soil ph, soil type and drainage. Some of the site conditions can be modified and adjusted to accept plants that would not normally grow in that area. For example, I have always enjoyed the Iris such as Louisiana and Siberian type, that require moist retentive or damp soil, however I do not have a boggy or damp site. Some of these Iris' will grow under drier conditions, though they look much better in moisture retentive soil. What I have discovered in this case is while planting a large or small border I can create a bog or wet area within my planting area. First, spade out a small lower area appropriate to the amount of planting material. (You want this area gently sloping down into the area you desire to be your wet zone) Water will run into the wet zone after rain and irrigation. Next, you need to temporarily remove 2 to 3 feet of soil to make a good size hole and line the hole with roll plastic,( heavy mill type), then back fill with original soil, peat, and compost. These materials will hold moisture and help create the wet environment. You can also bury a small pond or large pot with no drain hole. This is just as effective but more expensive. Now you have a damp area right in the middle of a dry area. The lowness of the area will direct the water into the miniature bog. At times there may be a need to refill your boggy area
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Factoids:
Bergamot (Monarda)
"The citrusy-minty scent (of Monarda) was so reminiscent of the aromatic oil pressed from bergamot oranges (grown in and around Bergamo, Italy) that (one of ) the common names for these handsome mints became wild bergamot" (Mary Durant)
Other common names included, especially for the red forms, Indian Plume, mountain mint, and bee balm: The Native Americans called it o-gee-chee or flaming flower.
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