If the wetland will receive wastewater prior to planting, spread mulch two inches deep over the gravel bed. Select mulch that will not contaminate the wetland with undesirable weed species. The mulch can be covered with a woven biodegradable netting or jute to hold it in place. Prior to mulching, place a durable material over the gravel to prevent the mulch from clogging the wetland. The mulch will help insulate the bed to prevent freezing during the winter.
Plants typically take two to three years to fully mature.
If effluent is not immediately available after planting, flood the wetland so that the water is within 2 inches of the top of the gravel. Do not let the water reach a level above the top of gravel, as plant survival will be less than 50 percent under these conditions. The minimum period for watering and fertilizing the plants should be six weeks. Watering may be accomplished by leaving the building water supply on and running faucets continuously or by inserting a hose into the front end of the wetland. The water level must be maintained at 1-2 inches below the surface of the gravel for at least one full growing season at all times.