Rainscaping manages stormwater naturally where it falls—the way nature intended. Rain gardens are a key rainscaping technique, using planted basins to capture and filter runoff while creating attractive landscape features. Impervious surfaces like rooftops, driveways, and compacted soil prevent rainwater from absorbing into the ground. Instead, runoff rushes toward sewers, picking up pollutants along the way. In heavy rains, this can overwhelm sewer systems, causing basement backups and sending contaminated water into local streams untreated.
How Rain Gardens Work
Every effective rain garden includes a water source (like a downspout), a shallow basin holding 4-8inches of water, uncompacted soil that drains within 24-48 hours, an overflow route for heavy storms, and native plants with deep roots that filter contaminants and support wildlife.
- Protect Your Home: Direct water away from foundations and reduce basement backup risks.
- Lower Maintenance: These self-watering gardens need no fertilizers or pesticides—just periodic weeding, mulching, and pruning.
- Beautify Your Property: Create attractive alternatives to traditional lawns with seasonal interest.
- Support Wildlife: Provide habitat for birds, butterflies, and pollinators.
- Reduce Mosquitoes: Proper drainage prevents breeding while attracting natural predators.
- Improve Water Quality: Filter pollutants, reduce sewer overflows, and prevent erosion.
Getting Started
Size your garden by measuring the impervious area draining into it and dividing by five. Space plants12-24 inches apart, depending on size and desired density. Choose 3-4 Missouri native species suited to your sunlight and preferences—you can add more as you become familiar with them. Call Dig Rite before digging, use a level to ensure even edges, and plant in spring or fall for best results.
Minimal Care, Maximum Impact
Once established, rain gardens need no watering or fertilizer. Just remove dead foliage in early spring and pull weeds as needed. Every rainfall becomes an opportunity to protect your home and improve water quality—all while enjoying a beautiful, thriving garden.
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