Rain Gardening in the Home Landscape
Feature Story
Kim Morganello
Water Resources Associate
Clemson Extension
Charleston
Team Members:
Morganello, K1
-
Water Resources Extension Agent, Clemson Extension, Charleston, South Carolina, 29401
Abstract
Rain Gardens are considered a best practice for allowing stormwater runoff to slow down and infiltrate into the soil; thus reducing erosion and moisture control issues and reducing pollution associated with stormwater runoff. The Rain Gardening in the Home Landscape article was featured in the Naturally Kiawah Winter/Spring 2017 Magazine. The article provides introductory information on rain garden design. Readers learn that the site suitability for a rain garden is contingent upon a percolation test. General guidelines for siting the rain garden, such as distance from a septic drain field, are provided. Rain garden installation tips are highlighted in the article including the creation of ponding depth with rain garden shape and a soil recipe involving sand and compost amendments. Readers gain basic information on plant selection as well as maintenance actions for long-term success. The article highlights testimonials from residents about their rain gardening success. An example of one of the quotes is from Karen Piret "We are really happy this (rain garden) solved our problems (drainage issues) because then we didn't have to dig a drain and run tubing. That would have been a lot of work." The article concludes with available rain gardening resources associated with Clemson Extension's Carolina Rain Garden Initiative. Resources include the Virtual Rain Garden, listing of demonstration rain gardens in South Carolina and the Clemson Extension Guide to Rain Gardens in South Carolina. The article is four pages in length and includes six color photographs.
Years of CES Service: 0
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