Defra Shares Top 5 Plants to Flood-Proof Your Garden

In response to the UK's rising flood risk due to climate change, the Department for Environment (Defra) has identified 5 key plant types that can help homeowners make their gardens more flood-resilient. According to officials, selecting appropriate flora can significantly enhance a garden's ability to recover swiftly after intense downpours, thereby reducing the potential for flooding and property damage.

Defra explains that certain plants act as "natural sponges", absorbing water through their root systems and foliage. This process not only slows water flow and improves soil absorption but also contributes aesthetically to the garden's appeal. The list of recommended flood-ready plants includes river birch (Betula nigra), a fast-growing tree with shallow roots that stabilize soil and absorb lots of water, and dogwood (Cornus sericea), a shrub with fibrous roots that help prevent soil erosion.