Managing runoff water after a storm is an average outdoor enthusiast’s nightmare. Stormwater runoff can damage plants, cause the garden soil to become overly wet, or even uproot plants. A rain garden can help address this problem. A rain garden can be created by planting wildflowers and other native vegetation in landscaped areas. A rain garden can allow up to 30 percent more water than a traditional patch to be soaked into the ground. Additionally, rain gardens are natural alternatives to mechanical fixes.
How Does a Rain Garden Work?
Thanks to an increase in impermeable surfaces due to rapid urbanization and paving, waterways today are flooded with water. Torrential rains can stress these systems, causing flooding. Water from storm drains and sewer systems often carries toxins from road debris and fertilizers. To prevent water laden with toxic chemicals from wreaking havoc on their gardens, many homeowners create a rain garden that utilizes soil structure and plants.
A rain garden is designed to prevent excess water from entering the water cycle. It allows water to seep naturally into the ground and evaporate. A rain garden will not only help you manage runoff water, but can also improve the aesthetic appeal of your property.
Tips for Creating the Perfect Rain Garden for Your Home
Pick the Right Location
One of the most important factors that will impact the effectiveness of your rain garden is its location. You cannot go wrong while choosing the location of your rain garden. Waterfall contractors in Sonoma County recommend using an area at least 10 feet away from any structures as an average rain garden allows water from runoffs to be soaked by the soil. Using an area close to a critical structure can cause problems such as leakage and frost pressure.
Place your rain garden in a depression or a naturally occurring low spot. If your landscape does not have a naturally occurring low spot, create a bowl-shaped depression. Looking for home inspection? Home Inspector in Issaquah are often carried out by a professional home inspector who has received the necessary training and qualifications to carry out such examinations.
Choose Your Plants Wisely
When creating a rain garden, the importance of using water-loving plants cannot be emphasized enough. This should come as no surprise. The more water your plants soak, the better the drainage. Use native plants. If you can find plants that can thrive even during dry spells, nothing like it. A well-designed rain garden can also serve as a pollinator garden, naturally attracting wildlife such as bees and different species of birds.
A rain garden is a worthy addition to your home. A well-designed rain garden will go beyond merely preventing damage by runoff water, and can add significant value to your home. At Sweetwater Landscape, we are committed to helping our community members show their yard some love. Whether you are planning to create a new landscape or are looking for ways to improve an existing one, we are here to help. To discuss your landscaping project, call us at 707-887-0140.
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