A rain garden is a specially designed landscaped area that provides natural places for rainwater to collect and soak into the ground.
A rain garden is a specially designed landscaped area that provides natural places for rainwater to collect and soak into the ground.
A rain garden allows the rain water to pool for a short period of time in the garden. As rain from rooftop areas or paved areas soaks into the ground, the water is cleaned by the plants and the soil microbes in the soil. This water can recharge the groundwater supply and release slowly without dirt or other pollutants.
All it takes is a little planning, a shovel, some plants, and a few stones. It is easy and can be installed in a few short hours.
The plants need to be hearty and able to handle short periods of inundation after rain. Use of native and taller plants are preferable because of the pooling of the rain water.
Most of the time, soil will be well drained and dry. Look for plants that prefer moist or well drained soils.
Learn more about installing a rain garden.
In addition to installing a rain garden, you can also add certain plants to your existing garden that will help reduce stormwater runoff. These plants are typically hearty and will help soak up an abundance of rainwater.