Stars of the bog garden, there are quite a few species of hardy terrestrial orchids that can turn a slow-draining, waterlogged spot into a beautiful attraction. With hardiness zones ranging from zone 3 through 9, they add an unexpected touch of exoticism in the landscape.

Bog Orchids usually grow on a carpet of sphagnum moss, in association with bog heaths, carnivorous plants, The most commonly seen and noteworthy Bog Orchids include the Fringed Orchids (Platanthera), Dragon's Mouth (Arethusa bulbosa), Grass Pink (Calopogon tuberosus) and the Ladies Tresses (Spiranthes). Besides these are over 40 species that may also interest enthusiast gardeners.

All orchids are bisexual and insect pollinated. Orchid pollinators are long-tongued insects, such as large bees, butterflies and moths. White orchids are usually pollinated by moths and bees while the orange and red orchids are pollinated by butterflies. Rose Pogonia, Dragon's Mouth and Grass Pink are visited by bumblebees and Ladies Tresses are visited by bees and bumblebees.

Bog Orchids thrive in full sun to partial shade in consistently damp, peaty, sandy soil. They do not need fertilization and do not tolerate rich soil fertility.

Spring is the best time to choose plants and plant a bog garden, as the plants will have enough time to root during the warmer months.