Rain Gardens
A Local Baltimore Rain Garden
In developed areas, the natural filtration system for rainwater has been disrupted. Instead of forests and meadows, the land is covered with hard surfaces like roads, sidewalks, rooftops and driveways. Runoff from these surfaces overwhelms the soil’s ability to absorb the water so it continues to our waterways collecting pollution and trash.
A rain garden is landscaped depression designed to capture rain runoff. A ponding area and soils with great drainage capacity allow time for for the water to soak into the ground and and plant roots.
A rain garden is not a pond! It will completely absorb runoff within 24-48 hours after a storm. There is no standing water between storms.
A rain garden can be installed in yards, parks, schools, and even commercial properties.
Personal Benefits
- Adds beauty to your yard
- Does not require mowing
- Redirects rainwater and controls flooding on your property
Environmental Benefits
- Protects streams from flooding and pollution
- Filters polluted runoff naturally
- Recharges groundwater supplies
- Attracts and provides habitat for pollinators and birds
Blue Water Baltimore’s Water Audit Program provides financial incentives for rain gardens on residential properties.
By installing a rain garden, you can make a major positive impact on our streams.
Rain Garden FAQs
Rain Gardens capture runoff and allow the water to slowly sink into the ground.
How do I design my own rain garden?
Designing your own garden is time and labor intensive, but, it can be fun! It is also more affordable.
There are plenty of resources available on the Water Audit Resource page.
Blue Water Baltimore is offering an in-depth training course for Water Audit participants who want to design and install their own rain garden. This training will cover everything you need from plant selection to material resources to design tips and templates.
Is there any maintenance required?
Rain gardens do require some routine maintenance including weeding, plant replacement and pest management.
Does it attract mosquitoes?
No. Mosquito eggs require 7 to 12 days of standing water to hatch. Properly designed rain gardens will be completely dry within 48 hours of a storm, so they don’t have time to grow in a rain garden. Rain gardens also attract beneficial insects such as dragonflies, which love to eat mosquitoes!
How do I get a rebate for my rain garden?
Register now for the Water Audit Program. Following your site assessment, summit your Rain Garden Approval Form at least 2 weeks prior to breaking ground. After your project has been installed, complete the rebate form.