Rain Gardens & Dry Creek Beds

Help Conserve Water with Rain Gardens

Rain gardens and dry creek beds are beautiful, functional landscape features that capture and filter stormwater runoff, reduce erosion, and conserve water while creating habitat for beneficial wildlife.

What is a Rain Garden?

A rain garden is a shallow depression planted with native perennials, grasses, and shrubs that collects and absorbs rainwater from roofs, driveways, and other hard surfaces. Unlike a pond, it dries out between rain events.

Benefits of Rain Gardens

• Reduces stormwater runoff and flooding
• Filters pollutants before they reach streams and lakes
• Recharges groundwater
• Creates habitat for butterflies, birds, and beneficial insects
• Reduces lawn area and maintenance needs
• Adds beauty and interest to your landscape

Rain Garden Basics

Location:

• At least 10 feet from building foundations
• In a naturally low area or create a shallow depression
• Where water naturally flows during rain
• Away from septic systems and utilities

Size:

• Typically 100-300 square feet for residential properties
• Depth of 4-8 inches at center
• Size depends on drainage area and soil type

Best Plants for Rain Gardens:

• Native perennials that tolerate both wet and dry conditions
• Examples: Black-eyed Susan, Purple Coneflower, Cardinal Flower
• Native grasses: Little Bluestem, Switch Grass
• Shrubs: Buttonbush, Winterberry, Red Twig Dogwood

Dry Creek Beds

A dry creek bed mimics a natural streambed and provides a decorative way to manage water drainage. It guides water away from problem areas while adding visual interest.

Dry Creek Bed Design:

• Line with landscape fabric to prevent weeds
• Use a variety of stone sizes for natural appearance
• Create gentle curves and vary the width
• Plant native grasses and perennials along edges
• Add larger boulders for visual anchors

Maintenance Tips

• Water new plants regularly for the first year
• Remove weeds before they become established
• Add mulch annually to suppress weeds and retain moisture
• Remove sediment and debris after major storms
• Divide perennials every 3-5 years as needed