With new regulations and fees associated with run-off from residential properties in Baltimore, and increased concern regarding its effect on the Bay, many homeowners are looking into establishing rain gardens as part of a rain water management system for the home.
The following is a very brief outline of factors that need to be considered when planning a rain garden. If you would like additional information, please contact me.
- Location
Place the rain garden at least 10 feet from the foundation of your home and below the level of your home.If you have a patio or terrace, consider integrating the location of the rain garden with these outdoor areas so that you can more easily enjoy the garden.Avoid placing the rain garden in an area of the yard that is currently ponding, as this will slow infiltration.
- Size
Most residential rain gardens should be in the 100 to 300 square foot range.This size is only an approximation, if you are planning to divert all of the downspouts from a large home into a single garden, you should be on the high side of this range.It you are planning to capture less rainfall, the smaller size should work.The size can more precisely determined by calculating run off quantities.Depth of the pond should be between 4 to 8 inches.
- Plants
Choose native plants that are adaptable to both wet and dry conditions, the garden will be alternately inundated, and dry.
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