Rain Gardens
A Rain Garden is a shallow dish-like depression in the ground that is planted with plants that are tolerant to both wet and dry conditions. These specialized gardens collect rain water and snow melt from your roof, driveway, sidewalks, or lawns. This captured water is either taken up by growing plants or allowed to seep slowly into the ground. The natural action of plants or water-absorbing soils help preserve nearby streams and lakes by reducing the amount of runoff and filtering pollutants.
Register for Hands-On Workshop
A Free Sponsored by Hoosier Energy, a Hands-on Rain Garden Workshop will be held on June 19th at the Sullivan County Park & Lake. Space will be limited to 40 participants. Please use our on-line regsitration form or contact one of our partner SWCDs to reserve your space. Download Flyer with map, date, time.
The Bare-Bones Basics
Drainage
To avoid creation of mosquito-breeding habitat, surface water should drain within 48 hours. To determine suitability of a site for natural infiltration, dig a hole the size of a 1-pound coffee can and saturate the soil with water. Fill the hole with water and measure the depth. Measure the water depth again in 4 hours. If the water has not dropped at least 1", seek professional assistance for engineering required to achieve drainage requirements.
Size
Measure the area of impervious surfaces (roof, concrete, patio) that will drain to the rain garden. For a typical 6" deep garden, divide the impervious surface area by 4 to determine the size of your garden.
Excavation
Contact your local "Call Before You Dig" center at least 2 days before excavating to locate any underground utilities (811 in Indiana). Remove existing sod or plants and dig a 6" deep bowl. On sloped land, create a small berm on the downhill side of the garden. Allow a low point for water over 6" to escape. Take care to avoid compaction... many professionals suggest loosening the soil after excavation is complete.
Plant Selection
Select plants that are tolerant of both wet and dry conditions. Many perennials and native plants fulfill these requirements. Consult your local Master Gardener's organization, garden club, or landscape center.
Installation and Maintenance
Install and care for your plants as you would in other new landscaping. Plants will need to be watered until growth is established. Rain Gardens may require weeding until plants are of sufficient size to out-compete weeds. Mulches will help supress weed growth - Avoid mulches that float, such as hardwood bark.