When it comes to rain gardens, design matters for more than just aesthetics. Rain gardens are meant to serve an important purpose in capturing rainwater runoff, and both the plants and structure of the garden determine its effectiveness.
To help you learn more about rain gardens, here are some key benefits and design elements to know:
Rainwater runoff can be a huge problem in both urban and suburban areas without much natural vegetation. In areas prone to storms, rainwater collects in the streets, overflowing sewer drains and causing floods. A rain garden helps mitigate this issue by imitating the way the natural landscape handles excess water.
By directing heavy rain to a rain garden, you can slow the flow and reduce the chance of stormwater runoff overwhelming the storm sewer system.
The basic rain garden design is a shallow basin. Water naturally pools at the lowest point, where it gradually absorbs into the soil to nourish the plants. Unlike a bog or a garden pond, a well-designed rain garden dries in a few days. This means you won’t have to worry about standing water attracting mosquitos or other pests.
It’s a good idea to include a range of different plants when designing rain gardens. Diversity of shapes, sizes and root systems will better mimic the natural landscape and provide better drainage.
Some of the most popular plant choices include switchgrass, blue cardinal flower and marsh marigold. When in doubt, it’s always worth choosing native plants for your rain garden design that will thrive in your climate and support the local ecosystem.
For over 25 years, Mike Johnson, has help Buyers and Sellers in Greater New Haven, and across the state turn their dreams into reality. TAJ REAL ESTATE, LLC is a full service firm specializing in Short Sale, First Time Home Buyers, Sale and marketing of existing Home and Condos, Rentals, FHA 203K Sale and Renovation of Distress Properties, and Investor Purchase.
Mike Johnson is a graduate of Fairfield University, and a resident of Connecticut for over 38 years. He served on the Board of Directors for Hill Health Corporation from 1976 to 1984, has served on the Professional Standard Committee of the Greater New Haven Board of Realtors for over 8 years, served as Board of Directors for that organization from 2009-2012, and on the Farmington Canal Committee for over 10 years.
Mike possesses a high degree of knowledge, experience and integrity, and strives for excellence, as such creating a reputation second to none. Whether your Home is under water (owing more than the mortgage balance), or behind on your mortgage and facing foreclosure, your solution is only a phone call away. Pick up the phone and put your troubles in the hands of a experienced Realtor.
