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Let it Rain
Designed to collect runoff from roofs, driveways and other hard surfaces, rain gardens are 3-12 inch deep, saucer-shaped depressions filled with loose soil, rocks and native plants. Approximately 70 percent of pollution is caused by storm water runoff. Rain gardens help to reduce storm water pollution by capturing the runoff before it enters the drains. Once captured, the runoff then filters through the plants and soil, recharging the ground water and improving the overall quality of the watershed by removing pollutants, such as, oil, heavy metal, and aqua eco-system damaging nutrients. Rain gardens also provide an attractive option for resolving many types of drainage issues and often attract birds, butterflies and beneficial insects.
Quick Tips for Planning a Rain Garden
- Identify a low-lying area on your site that is able to catch runoff before it flows into storm drains or waterway
- Rain gardens should be located at least 15-20 feet from the home with a grassy buffer or a rocky area where the runoff passes through before entering the garden
- Consider positioning your garden so that any excess water will overflow away from your home
- Determine the size (generally, 150-400 square feet), shape, depth and budget for your garden
- Build a berm (low soil mound along the downhill side of the garden) and Dig the Garden!
- Don't forget, soil amendments such as sand and compost will improve overall drainage
For comprehensive information and instructions related to rainscaping, please visit the Chesapeake Ecology Center
If you would like to visit a rain garden, a good example is Brookside Gardens located in Montgomery County, Maryland
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Incorporating Native Plants
Native plants thrive in local environmental conditions and are able to tolerate fluctuations in climate and water levels. By incorporating a variety of plants in your rain garden design you will create visual interest and aesthetic value. Try these native plants when designing your garden: - Trees - Red Maple, River Birch, Sweet Bay Magnolia, American Holly
- Shrubs - Red Twig Dogwood, Pussy Willow, Clethra, Itea, Aronia, Grasses, Winterberry Holly, Bayberry
- Perennials - Hibiscus, Iris, Lobelia, Blackeyed Susans, Carex, Joy Pye Weed, Daylilly, Astilbe, Chelone, Creeping Jenny, Monarda
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When it Rains it Pours
Rain barrels collect and store rain runoff from the roof, by connecting to the home's downspout. During the summer months, rain barrels can save the homeowner up to 1,300 gallons of water. Whether homemade or purchased, rain barrels are available in many styles and colors to suit just about any homeowner's style. Below are some ideas for incorporating these barrels into your own garden: - After connecting the barrel to your home's downspout, direct the overflow hose into your garden for immediate watering
- Water inside of the barrel may be used at a later time for watering gardens or other needs
- Maintain the rain barrel by occasionally clearing any collected debris away from the inlet
- Rain barrels should be emptied, cleaned and stored indoors for the winter months
Did you Know? As a homeowner, you may be eligible for tax credits if you implement various storm water management techniques. |
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