durable inset for bog

by Claudia
(Mt Pleasant Michigan)

I would like to include several bogs in a university botanical garden that we will use for instruction of introductory classes. Is there a source for plans for a bog or for an inset that might be used to trap the water?

Thank you.

Doug says. A bog is simply a wet section of ground that tends to an acidic soil. In a smaller controlled setting, the easiest thing to do is excavate the size hole you want (in whatever shape you want) and then line it with pond liner. Make it 18-24-inches deep. Fill it with peat moss. That's your starting point.

As for "inset" - you can use any container that restricts drainage. There is no "bog container" to the best of my knowledge that is made just for bogs.

The only time you're going to have to get fancier than that is if you want to tie your bog into an existing water feature/pond or whether you want to build a bog as part of a pond. At that point, a lot of variables come into play (water movement, size of pumps, keeping the bog wet without contaminating the pond, etc) and your best bet is to find a local water pond builder who can size it all out for you depending on your specific need.

But if you're looking for inexpensive - dig a hole, line it with pond liner, fill with peat,landscape edges so students don't puncture liner, plant and enjoy.