RAIN GARDEN

Rain gardens are effective and simple landscape design techniques that help to support proper drainage, nutrient flow, and biodiversity. Not only do they add aesthetic value to many properties but they are also easy to maintain for years to come.

Overview:

  1. Choose a location at least 30’ from any built structures. Your choice of location should be based on observation and research about runoff flow on the property you are specifically addressing.

  2. Determine which soil to use as a base (and filter) in your rain garden. Sand filters faster while clay filters slower.

  3. Dig out the garden plot based on appropriate size (see ecosystem gardening source for more information)

  4. Fill with chosen soil and plant with native long-rooted plants

More Information

For additional installation instruction, please visit these resources:

Ecosystem Gardening48

Alliance for the Bay49


For information on Permitting and Inspections before implementing your improvements, click here33.