What is a Rain Garden?
Rain gardens capture and use water that would otherwise be wasted.
A rain garden is a depression in the ground, planted with appropriate plants (usually natives), that allows rainwater runoff from surfaces like roofs and driveways to soak into the ground rather than flowing into storm drains or rivers and streams. This technique not only looks beautiful, it can cut down on erosion, water pollution and flooding, and help replenish groundwater.
Next time it rains, take a look at where the water from your downspouts goes. If it flows out onto your lawn, you might be surprised that it runs right off the lawn – turf grass can be as impervious as a sidewalk! This is a good place to plant a rain garden.
The Rain Garden Network is a great reference.
And another from www.raingardens.org.
