Rain gardens are an excellent way to manage stormwater runoff while adding beauty to your outdoor space. When planting in outdoor plant boxes, selecting the right plants is crucial for success. Here are some of the best plants for rain gardens in outdoor plant boxes:

1. Blue Flag Iris (Iris versicolor) – This striking perennial thrives in wet conditions and adds vibrant color to your rain garden. Its tall, slender leaves and purple-blue flowers make it a standout choice.

2. Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) – A favorite for pollinators, swamp milkweed tolerates soggy soil and produces clusters of pink flowers that attract butterflies.

3. Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) – Known for its brilliant red blooms, this plant loves moist soil and adds a pop of color to any rain garden.

4. Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum) – A tall, hardy plant with fluffy pink flowers, perfect for the back of a rain garden box. It’s also a magnet for butterflies.

5. Sedges (Carex spp.) – These grass-like plants are excellent for stabilizing soil and thrive in wet conditions. They come in various shades of green and gold.

6. Golden Ragwort (Packera aurea) – A low-maintenance ground cover with bright yellow flowers, ideal for filling gaps in plant boxes.

7. Turtlehead (Chelone glabra) – This unique plant produces white or pink flowers resembling turtle heads and thrives in consistently moist soil.

By choosing these water-tolerant plants, you can create a thriving rain garden in your outdoor plant boxes that’s both eco-friendly and visually stunning. Pair them with mulch and proper drainage to ensure long-term success. Happy gardening!