ABSTRACT
Wetland construction involves vegetation techniques related to species choice and plant handling. This chapter describes considerations and techniques learned from experience in developing wetlands for wastewater treatment. It focuses on herbaceous macrophytes because most of what is known about wastewater treatment with wetlands concerns these types of plants. The chapter also focuses primarily on in situ substrates, in contrast to substrates borrowed from other areas. Three important factors contribute to the diversity of natural wetlands and form the basis for any wetland development protocol. These are hydrologic considerations, substrate, and vegetation. Many substrates are suitable for wetland establishment. Evidence from a New York project suggested that drying and aerating a wetland soil is especially good for wetlands establishment because such soils have high levels of nutrients and oxidation followed by flooding enhanced macronutrient availability. Wetlands are generally planted with whole plants or dormant rhizomes and tubers.
