Published in the News-Review on April 4, 2025

By: Mackenzi Hall

“The Benefits of Rain Gardens & How to Get Started”

Question: Recently, my back yard (and more importantly my garden) has fallen victim to the exorbitant amount of water we have received in Douglas County. It seems each year I struggle with standing water and I would love to learn how to direct that runoff into something more productive than just a temporary pond. Do you have any suggestions? 

Answer: In recent years, rain gardens have emerged as an effective solution to manage stormwater runoff, enhance biodiversity, and beautify landscapes. These specially designed gardens can capture and absorb rainwater from roofs, driveways, and other hard surfaces, thus limiting flooding and providing essential habitat for wildlife. By incorporating native plants and strategic design, rain gardens can serve as both a functional and aesthetic addition to any property. Follow along to learn the benefits of rain gardens and how to create one.

One of the primary functions of a rain garden is to absorb and manage stormwater runoff. Although Douglas County has experienced more water than usual the last few weeks, a well placed rain garden can drastically change the way your lawn retains moisture. By allowing rainwater to percolate through the soil, these gardens reduce the risk of flooding exponentially. 

Rain gardens filter impurities from rainwater by trapping sediments and absorbing nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus. Not only does this process help to reduce water pollution in nearby streams and rivers, but it also increases the health of your soil – a win-win! The addition of organic material in rain gardens can also improve soil health, enhancing its ability to support plant life. This can lead to better water retention and overall soil quality in the surrounding area.

If you plant a rain garden with native species you can not only provide habitat for a variety of beneficial pollinators, but you can really beautify a landscape. With colorful plants and thoughtful design, these gardens can attract butterflies, bees, and other wildlife, creating a thriving ecosystem. 

Creating a rain garden involves several steps, but the process can be rewarding and relatively straightforward. Here’s how to get started:

1. Select a site at least 10 feet away from foundations, driveways, and sidewalks. Look for areas where water naturally collects or where downspouts can direct rainwater. Avoid spots with little to no drainage or high clay content, as these can really hinder absorption. 
2. The size of your garden can vary based on the amount of runoff you want to manage, but a general rule of thumb is to make the garden one-third the size of the contributing area (like the roof or driveway). The depth of the garden can range from 6 to 12 inches, depending on the type of soil.
3. Shape your rain garden with a gentle curve to encourage water to flow into the area and be sure it has a slight slope toward the center to help facilitate drainage. You can also divide the area into sections with different plants if you’re wanting to create visual interest.
4. Choose a variety of native plants that are well-adapted to your region and can tolerate both wet and dry conditions. Ideally, you will look for a mix of grasses, perennials, and flowering plants that will flourish in different seasons. Native plants require less maintenance and water, making them an ideal choice for an eco-friendly garden. 
5. Before planting, remove any existing grass and weeds from the site and loosen the soil to improve drainage. You can also amend the soil with organic compost to increase the health of your plants.  
6. Start by placing taller plants towards the back or center of the garden and put shorter plants around the edges. Be sure to read the tags, so that plants are spaced appropriately for optimal growth. After planting, water them thoroughly and add a layer of mulch to suppress weeds and retain moisture. 
7. Regular maintenance includes monitoring for weeds and watering during dry spells. After the initial establishment phase, most native plants will require minimal maintenance. 

Rain gardens offer an excellent opportunity to manage wasteful and sometimes frustrating stormwater all while enhancing the beauty of your yard. With thoughtful planning and a little research into native plants, you can turn the rainy season here in Douglas County into a wonderful excuse to get more plants in the ground!

Do you have a gardening or insect question? Contact the Douglas County Master Gardeners at douglasmg@oregonstate.edu or 541-672-4461 or visit 1134 SE Douglas Ave., Roseburg. Douglas County Master Gardeners are trained volunteers who help the OSU Extension Service serve the people of Douglas County.