A rain garden is a shallow depression that contains loose soil, mulch, and sometimes stone, and is planted with native plants. As the stormwater soaks into the ground, physical and biological processess remove pollutants and nutrients.
Native plants in rain gardens are adapted to local conditions, need little maintenance and water, and no fertilizer or pesticides. They are beautiful and provide wildlife habitat.
Have you already heard some things about rain gardens?
Make sure you know the facts!
- Rain gardens are not wet ponds. They are designed to drain within 24-48 hours after a rain storm.
- Rain gardens do not breed mosquitos.
- Rain gardens require little maintenance.
What you can do...
- Plant a rain garden, conservation landscape, or trees to help infiltrate and absorb storm water.
- Use swales (ditches) and berms (mounds) to direct water into planted areas.
- Disconnect your downspout from the stormwater system. Capture water from your downspout to flow in a rain barrel, rain garden, or other planted area.
- Select permeable pavers and pavement for hard surfaces.
