Wet ground: read water movement before fixing it

Symptoms

Standing water, smeared soil, failing paths, repeated erosion, weak growth, or areas that cannot be accessed without damage.

Likely causes

Compaction, poor access routes, concentrated runoff, bare soil, heavy rainfall, springs, drains, or natural low points.

Fix pattern

Start with observation, then improve access, protect soil cover, slow water where safe, and choose planting that fits the wetness rather than pretending it is a dry site.