Rain Gardens and Vegetated Swales

Rain gardens and vegetated swales mimic the function of a natural wetland system. Rain gardens are typically shallow depressions that collect and filter rainwater runoff. Vegetated swales possess similar functions, expect that they are generally designed to direct the flow of stormwater elsewhere.  Areas that traditionally receive water such as near downspouts, roadside ditches, or areas with high water tables are the best candidates; however, with a little ingenuity, rain gardens and vegetated swales can really be installed anywhere.

Rain gardens and vegetated swales are planted with water-loving attractive native grasses, flowers, and sedges. The native plants naturally filter out pollutants from impervious surfaces including roads, roof tops, and driveways. Sediment, organic pollutants, fertilizers, oils, pesticides, as well as bacteria from pet waste are removed from the water before percolating back into local groundwater aquifers. Unlike a traditional turn lawn, the deep root systems of native plants encourage stormwater runoff to infiltrate into the soil and recharge groundwater, which helps to prevent flooding and alleviate ponding. Another bonus of using native plants, they require less maintenance than traditional forms of landscaping, they do not require fertilizers, are tolerant of the local climate, and provide food and shelter for local fauna.

W2W can help you choose the perfect place for a rain garden or vegetated swale and create a beautiful design full of seasonal color, year-round interest, and attract butterflies and other native pollinators.