As our summer seasons get drier and winters get wetter, water management in our yards is becoming more of a challenge. Rain gardens offer a beautiful and functional solution to both of these issues, especially when planted with the right plants. These beautiful and functional landscapes not only manage stormwater but also enhance biodiversity, especially when planted with native species.
What is a Rain Garden?
A rain garden is a shallow, planted depression designed to sink and absorb rainwater runoff from roofs, driveways, and other impervious surfaces. Unlike typical gardens, rain gardens are strategically located to capture runoff, allowing it to soak into the ground rather than flow into storm drains. This not only reduces the volume of water reaching our waterways but also helps to filter out pollutants.
The Benefits of Rain Gardens
1. Stormwater Management: Rain gardens mitigate flooding and erosion by absorbing and slowing down runoff. This helps to recharge groundwater supplies and reduces the burden on municipal water systems.
2. Water Quality Improvement: As rainwater percolates through the soil in a rain garden, pollutants such as sediment, nitrogen, and phosphorus are naturally filtered out, resulting in cleaner water entering our rivers and streams.
3. Wildlife Habitat: Rain gardens provide essential habitat for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds. The inclusion of native plants can further enhance this benefit, as these plants offer the food and shelter that local wildlife depends on.
4. Aesthetic Appeal: Beyond their functional benefits, rain gardens are beautiful additions to any landscape. They can be designed to blend seamlessly with their surroundings or to stand out as vibrant, colourful features.
The Key Elements of Rain Gardens
Location: Rain gardens are typically placed in low-lying areas of a yard where water naturally collects or in areas where runoff can be directed, such as near home downspouts or at the bottom of a slope. The ideal location is at least 10 feet away from your home to prevent water from seeping into the foundation.
Soil: Rain gardens require well-draining soil such as sand, organic mulch, and topsoil to ensure proper infiltration. This allows water to percolate through the ground rather than pool on the surface.
Native Plants: Native plants are key to a successful rain garden. They are well-adapted to local conditions, including periods of both drought and heavy rain. Plants with deep root systems, such as wildflowers, grasses, and shrubs, help improve soil structure and promote water absorption. Some great native plants to include in a rain garden are hardhack, goldenrod, red huckleberry, sea thrift, and pacific crabapple.
Design: Rain gardens are usually designed with a bowl-like shape to collect and hold water. The edges are often bermed, which means they're higher than the center to allow water to pool temporarily before it infiltrates the soil. Proper grading and a slight slope ensure that water flows into the garden and stays there long enough to be absorbed.
Mulch and Stones: Adding mulch and stones around plants helps prevent soil erosion and keeps the garden looking tidy. Mulch also retains moisture, while stones can be used to slow down water flow and create natural-looking pathways.
Have you ever considered planting a rain garden? Or would just like to learn more about them? I am taking on new garden design and consultation clients and would love to help you create a sustainable backyard oasis.
(Image Source: watershedfriendlypa.org)