Is there anything better than looking out your window over a lush landscape and vibrant garden? With June’s unusually rainy weather, we are reaping the benefits with greener lawns and growing garden beds. However, managing stormwater can be a challenge, especially during heavy rains. Enter the rain garden – a beautiful and eco-friendly solution to this common problem. Here’s why you should consider establishing a rain garden and how to get started.

Why a Rain Garden?

Rain gardens are designed to collect and absorb runoff from roofs, driveways, and lawns, reducing the amount of stormwater that flows into storm drains and, ultimately, our rivers and lakes. Here are some key benefits:

Environmental Impact:

Rain gardens help filter out pollutants from runoff, improving water quality. They also recharge local groundwater supplies, contributing to a healthier ecosystem.

Flood Control:

By capturing and absorbing rainwater, rain gardens help prevent localized flooding and erosion. This is particularly beneficial in areas with clay soil, common in the Midwest, which can be prone to waterlogging.

Biodiversity:

A well-designed rain garden attracts birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects, enhancing the biodiversity of your yard.

Aesthetic Appeal:

Rain gardens add visual interest to your landscape with a variety of colorful, water-loving plants that thrive in wet conditions.

Getting Started

Creating a rain garden is easier than you might think. Here’s a simple guide to get you started:

• Choose the Right Location: Select a low-lying area at least 10 feet away from your home to prevent water from seeping into your foundation. Avoid areas with heavy foot traffic.
• Assess the Soil: Conduct a soil test to determine its drainage capacity. Most rain gardens perform best in sandy or loamy soil. If your soil is heavy clay, you might need to amend it with compost or sand.
• Design and Size: Plan the shape and size of your rain garden based on the amount of runoff you need to manage. Generally, rain gardens should be 1/3 the size of the impervious surfaces draining into them.
• Select Native Plants: Choose native plants that can tolerate both wet and dry conditions. Some excellent choices for Midwest rain gardens include coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and blue flag iris.
• Dig and Amend: Dig a shallow depression (6-12 inches deep) and amend the soil if necessary. Create a berm on the downhill side to help retain water.
• Plant and Mulch: Arrange your plants in the garden, placing taller species in the center and shorter ones along the edges. Apply a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and reduce weeds.

By establishing a rain garden, you’re not only enhancing the beauty of your landscape but also contributing to a healthier environment. With a bit of planning and effort, you can create a stunning rain garden that benefits both your home and the ecosystem.

Our designers are pros at identifying the perfect location for a rain garden within your landscape. Work with our team to create one in your yard. Start the conversation by calling  262-252-4260 or visit our website at https://amerlandscape.com/contact/.