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Poor Drainage after rainstorms
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Posted by maggieintheslope (My Page) on Sat, May 9, 09 at 12:19
Hi all -
I have recently started gardening again and want to try to fix up my back yard. It is a challenge for many reasons, particularly because I have a big maple tree at the very end of my property that results in shade for most of the garden. But before I even address the plant selection issue, I have a drainage problem I need to deal with.
With all the rain recently, the non-garden areas have turned into muck. I know that there is concrete below most of the area next to the house - about half of the total footage - and dirt, bricks and a few flagstones on top of that. I didn't have this problem previously, so I don't know what is keeping it from draining now (since I really haven't done much of anything back there in years).
I am tempted to buy some sand or gravel and spread that around, but I don't know if it would make any difference and money is a little too tight for me to experiment in a big way. Any (low-cost) suggestions would really be appreciated. Thanks in advance. |
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RE: Poor Drainage after rainstorms
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- Posted by jimshy z7 Brooklyn, NY (My Page) on
Fri, Jun 5, 09 at 11:08
| It's hard to say what's causing more blockage this year, it could be conditions in neighbors' yards, it could be a previous outlet, above or below ground, got choked off -- regardless, there's not much short of digging up the concrete that's going to make a huge difference. Is there any way to walk the perimeter of your garden from the neighbors' side of the fence, and see what's going on/ask them about their drainage? It could be someone uphill has installed drain pipes or some sort of conduit that dumps their water out near your place. Best option this year -- plant water-loving plants! Native hibiscus, irises, lobelias, ferns, etc., there's a fair amount of choice, ask around at the nurseries or farmer's markets and see what they suggest. I wouldn't bother with sand or gravel; you'd need a truck-load to make a difference and you'd really just be putting a faster draining layer on top of the mud, rather than fixing the drainage. Sorry I can't offer happier advice! Jim |
RE: Poor Drainage after rainstorms
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- Posted by lee1 z7 Long Island (My Page) on
Fri, Aug 21, 09 at 12:06
Just came across your question. Sounds like you need a drainage system. The ground in your yard probably has gotten more compacted over the years and we have had an excessive amount of rain this year. In order to remedy the problem permanently you can hook up spider lines from your drain spouts to a dry well and if needed also hook up a flow drain. That would allow the water to be redirected into the ground where it belongs. If you haven't already done so you can speak to a drainage expert and they may be able to help you. Then you can plant whatever you like!
Hope this helps. Lee |
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