What is a Rain Garden?

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A RAIN GARDEN?

One major benefit of rain gardens is bioretention—the process of removing pollutants, contaminants and sedimentation from stormwater runoff. During periods of rain or storm events, rain gardens capture water that flows across impermeable surfaces such as patios, roofs, parking lots, driveways and other hard surfaces. As rain and stormwater travel across these surfaces, they pick up contaminants such as oil, pet waste, fertilizer, sediments and other pollutants. By capturing this water, rain gardens reduce potential flooding and serve as a collection point for polluted water from coursing through storm sewer drains that would ultimately find its way into our streams, rivers and waterways.

Utilizing native plants in a rain garden creates an essential habitat for beneficial animals and insects. Native plants are those that occur naturally in a region and are acclimated to the local ecosystem. Local pollinators make use of those plants, which in turn helps the natural food chain and local agriculture.

HOW DO THEY WORK?

Four major functions:

• Rainwater is directed into the garden via rain chains, rain barrel overflow, downspouts, driveway drains, curb cuts, dry streambeds or sheet flow.

• When water soaks in, less stormwater erodes our streams and rivers.

• Deep-rooted plants break up hard soils and create channels for water to move through.

• Plant uptake, physical filtration, and biological processes reduce contaminants like oil, metals and nutrients.

Rain gardens can be installed in various locations throughout your property that are at least 10-20 feet away from your home. Water can be redirected from the downspouts of your home or other impervious surface or from rain barrel overflow. Water can be diverted underground to enter directly into the garden, or a dry streambed can be created as a channel to move water from the downspout to the rain garden. When choosing a location for your rain garden, make sure that the soil is capable of absorbing water. Avoid areas that already have poor drainage or issues with standing water.

The Rain Garden In Westerville

Living examples of established rain gardens throughout the Westerville neighborhoods and the parks system: Hoff Woods Park and Millstone Creek Park feature naturalized rain gardens and more “manicured” gardens are planted in tree lawns throughout the Brook Run Drive neighborhood.

Anatomy Of A Rain Garden

Rain gardens commonly consist of three different zones: the base layer, which is inundated with runoff water and planted with moisture-loving plants; the sloped layer, which acts as a berm for containing water; and the buffer zone which helps prevent erosion of surrounding soils. Most rain gardens are anywhere from six to 12 inches at the base layer. These zones or layers correlate to the water tolerance of plants.

When it comes to planting your rain garden, determine if your garden is full sun, partial shade/sun, or full shade and choose plants appropriately. Consider using native plants, trees, and shrubs that are suited to the local climate, soil, and pollinators. Choosing plants that vary in bloom time will ensure prolonged color and nectar sources throughout the growing season.

DRY

Penstemon, Purple Coneflower, Butterfly Weed (pictured), Smooth Aster, Wild Bergamot, Little Bluestem

MODERATE

Lobelia, Marsh Milkweed, Rose Mallow, Wild Geranium, Shasta Daisy (pictured), Blazing Star

WET

Arrowhead, Blue Flag Iris, Prairie Cord Grass, White Turtlehead, Forget-me-not (pictured)

*Plants listed are recommended for full sun exposure

DID YOU KNOW?

Westerville residents can receive $50 toward the purchase of native plants and trees, rain barrels or compost bins. Find details at www.communitybackyards.org

Visit www.centralohioraingardens.org for how-to details about creating your own rain garden.