Rain gardens are ideal for DC because they mimic the region's pre-settlement swamps. Rain gardens are designed to slow rain water and trap it in a way that's good for your garden and the environment. The Washington Post features local rain gardens and describes how local residents have built their own. More info below the jump...
The Post article details how experts have built their own rain gardens by digging up to three feet or more, and using surplus clay to reform the soil (varying combinations of soil, clay, compost and mulch recommended by different experts).
If you plan to dig deep, make sure you know the locations of buried utility pipes and wires.
Also choose plants that are suited for the depth of your changed soil. According to the Post, the lower the depth of your altered soil, the wetter the soil, and so the greater the need to select flood-tolerant plants and flowers.
Have you built a rain garden?
- Rachael
[photo above the jump from the Washington Post]
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More mosquitoes. Just what we need around here.
view Shawn's profile
I only see three photos on that site - are there more? I'd kind of like to see what they've done with their gardens...
view Monkeyme's profile
I have another question. In the article, it says the homeowners used "used bathwater" to water the plants, too. Now I've heard of a bucket that catches the water while the shower is "heating up" but unless these people don't use soap, it seems like this is a bad idea.
I just use a rain barrel and try to plant native plants along with my veggie garden. Seems to work fine and no fussy digging trenches, etc.
view kav122's profile