Moisture loving plants are ideal for gardens with naturally damp soil, pond edges, boggy corners or areas that never fully dry out. These varieties enjoy consistent moisture and reward you with strong growth, vibrant flowers and long lasting colour. Perfect for Irish gardens where rainfall is plentiful. FAQ. Do moisture loving plants need standing water? No. Most prefer damp soil rather than deep water. A few tolerate shallow water at the edges of ponds. Will they grow in normal garden soil? Some will, but they perform best in damp or boggy areas. Adding organic matter helps soil hold moisture. Are moisture loving plants good for wildlife? Yes. Many support bees, butterflies and wetland insects and provide shelter for frogs and other beneficial wildlife. Can they grow in shade? Many moisture lovers thrive in partial shade, especially primulas, astilbe and ligularia. When should I sow moisture loving plants? Most can be sown in spring or early summer. Some perennials benefit from autumn sowing or a cold period.