When Planting Near the Foundation

Trapped water and even water vapor-any kind of moisture, from rain and snowmelt to high humidity usually has a negative impact on materials, particularly wood.

- Ray Tschoepe

Trapped moisture may be a detriment to masonry and metal as well. Remember, anything outside will get wet, so the important consideration is that it be able to dry out quickly. Foundation plantings (dubbed "a skirt for the house" in an OHJ gardening article 25 years ago!) may be an aesthetic improvement but plants can cause trouble, especially when moisture-retaining mulch is added.