Rain gardens are unique landscaping features designed to filter and absorb rainwater, allowing it to be slowly re-integrated into our water system. Water runoff from roofs and driveways can be redirected from storm drains, limiting the pollution that enters our waterways and filtering it through the soil instead. When planted with lush native and flowering plants, rain gardens can also be an excellent way to attract pollinators to your area.

Rain gardens are designed to hold water directed from gutters and high parts of your yard into a shallow depressed garden area filled with native plants. When correctly placed and planned, rain gardens can provide beautiful landscaping while protecting local water resources.

When deciding whether to implement a rain garden, it important to be sure you place it in an area with the most potential for water collection. This will likely be near water spouts or driveways and streets. For home rain gardens, collecting the water from your roof should be relatively simple using gutters, and you can direct the water right where you want it to go.

Standing water in a low, wet spot in your yard may indicate that the soil there is slow to absorb water. The purpose of the rain garden is to assist with water infiltration, so this would not be the best place to start. Be sure to avoid placing a rain garden over a septic tank, leach field or drinking water well.

For more information on installing your own rain garden, visit this article from MSU Extension.