Drain Surface Water with Landscaping Techniques

Surface water drainage is necessary because accumulated water can damage or kill plants. 

Step 1 - Reason to Drain Surface Water

Surface water can collect on walkways, patios, swimming pool areas, flower beds, window wells and grass areas. In order to get rid of the standing surface water, use landscaping techniques can help with drainage.  

Step 2 - Plant a Rain Garden

Native plants are the first defense against surface water problems. They flourish without a lot of maintenance and need only occasional summer watering. A rain garden absorbs excess rainfall and cleans by filtration once it penetrates the soil. So, the rain garden reduces surface water and improves the quality of water. The surface water in the rain garden drains within four hours after a one inch rain occurs. Best plants for a rain garden are ones with deep fibrous roots, herbaceous, perennials, woody shrubs and trees. 

Step 3 - Plants and Grass

When planting leave adequate space between the plants. This allows surface water to soak into the soil. Regularly dethatch grass areas to maintain proper water absorption. 

Step 4 - Soil

Soil that does not drain well is due to clay that restricts the flow of surface water. Dig a small trench in areas where there is pooling of surface water. Add sand or gravel to improve drainage. 

Step 5 - Permeable Paving

Surface water drainage is a problem on driveways, patios and walkways. Permeable paving allows water to filter through openings or channels between the paving materials. Also correctly sloped paving will facilitate good drainage of surface water.