Rain Gardens
How Do Rain Gardens Work?
A rain garden is a shallow depression in the ground that allows stormwater to slowly infiltrate the soil. Native plants, mulch and soil in rain gardens naturally remove pollutants in the stormwater. Rain gardens receive stormwater from hard surfaces such as rooftops, sidewalks, driveways and patios, reducing the amount of stormwater (and pollutants) from entering our lakes, creeks and the Mississippi River.
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Build rain gardens near hard surfaces where rainwater can drain into the rain garden. |
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Planting deep-rooted native plants create natural areas to attract birds and butterflies. |
Polluted runoff is a big problem in urban areas where it is hard for stormwater to soak into the hard ground. Rainwater flows faster over hard surfaces, picking up pollutants before entering storm drains and the waters of Minneapolis.
Rain gardens are shallow depressions in the ground, and they can be simple or complex. They typically contain hardy and deep-rooted native plants, drawing water into the soil, helping to prevent stormwater runoff.
Additional Resources
Metro Blooms - Promotes and educates gardeners, landscapers, community and businesses. Metro Blooms also holds rain garden workshops in Minneapolis.
Clean Water Minnesota - Minnesota Water - Let's Keep It Clean
Last updated Feb 7, 2019
