WHY RAIN GARDENS?

Rain gardens are gardens that are watered by collected or pooled stormwater runoff, slowly infiltrating it into the ground along root pathways. They are typically planted with wildflowers and deep-rooted native vegetation, which helps infiltrate rain channeled to them from roofs, driveways, yards and other impervious surfaces. They can be placed near downspouts on homes (although away from building foundations and sewer laterals), and are an excellent means of removing pollutants from stormwater runoff. They should be slightly depressed to adequately hold and infiltrate stormwater runoff.

INFORMATION AND RESOURCES

• Rain Garden How-To Manual
• Rain Garden How-To Manual - (smaller filesize/printable)
• Rain Garden Plant Mixes
• Rain Garden Care
• Sample Plans for Planting

How to Install a Rain Garden

It's quick and easy to install a rain garden, this video will show you how.

Benefits of Rain Gardens with Melinda Myers

Check out this video with gardening expert Melinda Myers to learn about the benefits of planting a rain garden and how rain gardens can help the environment.

How to Select Plants for a Rain Garden with Melinda Myers

When it comes to choosing plants for your rain garden, you can be overwhelmed by the options. Gardening expert, Melinda Myers, offers a few of her favorite rain garden plants to help you get started.