| 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 |
