Rain garden full#

More drought-tolerant plants can be used around the edges, where it will dry out quicker, and around the perimeter lip (otherwise known as the berm). As the RHS (opens in new tab) advises, they need to withstand waterlogging for up to 48 hours at a time. So, this is best suited to native plants that can survive. The deepest part of the dip as well as the area closest to the inlet pipe (where the water enters) will get the wettest. This can be accomplished by a natural slope, by digging a shallow swale, or by piping the runoff directly to the garden through a buried 4' diameter plastic drain tile.When it comes to planting for rain gardens, especially for those dug into the ground, it's best to think in zones.

The downspout from your roof or sump pump outlet from your basement should be directed toward your rain garden depression. (For more detail, see the links at the end of this article.) You can calculate the ideal size for a rain garden, based on the surface area of your roof, soil type and the garden's distance from your house. Most people just size the garden to suit their available space. Depending on the type of soil you have (sand, clay, loam), you may need to line that area of the garden with plastic to help retain a small pool of water.Ī typical residential rain garden is 100 to 300 square feet, but any size rain garden is fine. If you want to create an area with standing water for fish and amphibians, you can make one part of your rain garden deeper, perhaps as much as 18 inches in the deepest spot. Because mosquitoes require seven to 10 days to lay and hatch their eggs, this will help you avoid mosquito problems. If your rain garden is no more than about 6' deep, stormwater will usually be absorbed within a one- to seven-day period. This berm will help contain the stormwater and allow it to percolate slowly through the rain garden. Use the soil that you remove to build up a slightly raised area on the lowest side of the garden. Slope the sides gradually from the outside edge to the deepest area. Once you've identified the new garden's location, remove the sod and dig a shallow depression approximately 6' deep. This hydrangea ( Hydrangea arborescent 'Annabelle') is a native species well-suited to a rain garden planting. Choosing a relatively level spot for the garden will keep digging to a minimum. There should be a natural slope (at least 1 percent grade) leading from the water collection area (your roof or driveway) down to the rain garden.

Rain garden full#

Ideally this area receives full sun, but at a minimum it should receive a half day of sunlight. A natural site is a low spot in your yard that often collects water after a heavy rain. Your rain garden should be located at least 10 feet from the house. Adding a rain garden to your yard will also provide food and shelter for wildlife, and give you a whole new garden that's hardy, low maintenance and naturally beautiful! Choose the Site By taking responsibility for the rainwater that falls on your own roof and driveway, you'll be helping to protect our rivers, streams and lakes from stormwater pollution. Studies have shown that as much as 70% of the pollution in streams, rivers and lakes has been carried there by stormwater. Rain gardens can have a significant impact on the water quality in our communities. This area is planted with native grasses and wildflowers that are specially selected for their ability to gradually absorb and filter stormwater. Rather than rushing off into a storm sewer or a local waterway, the rainwater collects in a shallow depression in your yard. It's a rain garden.Ī rain garden is a special type of garden, designed to collect stormwater runoff from a roof, driveway or other impervious surfaces. It's easy to install, looks good year-round and has a positive impact on the environment. Filled with moisture-tolerant plants, it can also be a beautiful addition to a landscape. A rain garden collects water runoff and allows it to soak into the ground.