Category: Seattle

  • Should I Trim Grasses in Rain Gardens?

    Rain gardens are designed to manage stormwater, filter pollutants, and support native plant and wildlife habitats. They are often planted with a variety of grasses, sedges, and perennials that help slow runoff, absorb excess nutrients, and provide aesthetic value. Grasses, in particular, are a staple in many rain gardens because of their dense root systems,…

  • How Do I Prepare My Rain Garden for Winter?

    Rain gardens are designed to manage stormwater, improve water quality, and create vibrant ecosystems in your yard. However, as temperatures drop and winter approaches, proper preparation is crucial to protect your plants, soil, and overall garden structure. Preparing your rain garden for winter ensures that it remains healthy, resilient, and ready to thrive in the…

  • Can Mulch Help Rain Garden Maintenance?

    Rain gardens are carefully designed landscape features that capture and filter stormwater runoff, improve soil health, and provide habitat for native plants and wildlife. They are an excellent tool for homeowners and urban planners looking to manage stormwater sustainably. While planting and soil design are crucial, ongoing maintenance is equally important for long-term effectiveness. One…

  • How Do I Prevent Soil Compaction in Rain Gardens?

    Rain gardens are specially designed landscapes that capture stormwater runoff, reduce erosion, filter pollutants, and create habitats for native plants, insects, and wildlife. The effectiveness of a rain garden depends heavily on the soil’s ability to absorb and retain water while providing a healthy environment for plant roots. Soil compaction, a common problem in gardens…

  • How Do I Control Pests in a Rain Garden?

    Rain gardens are beautiful, functional landscaping features that manage stormwater, improve water quality, and provide habitat for local wildlife. They are designed to capture runoff from roofs, driveways, and other impervious surfaces, allowing water to infiltrate the soil naturally. While rain gardens generally support a healthy ecosystem, they are not immune to pests. Insects, rodents,…

  • Should I Fertilize Rain Garden Plants?

    Rain gardens are more than just decorative features—they are functional landscapes designed to manage stormwater runoff, reduce erosion, and improve water quality. They also create valuable habitats for pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects. Unlike traditional gardens, rain gardens rely on a delicate balance of native plants, soil, and natural rainfall to thrive. A common question…

  • How Do I Prevent Algae in Rain Garden Water?

    Rain gardens are an excellent way to manage stormwater runoff, improve water quality, and create habitat for birds, insects, and beneficial plants. However, one common problem that many homeowners encounter is algae growth. Algae can make your rain garden look unsightly, create unpleasant odors, and, in extreme cases, disrupt the balance of your garden ecosystem.…

  • How Do I Replace Dead Plants in a Rain Garden?

    Rain gardens are carefully designed landscapes that manage stormwater, improve water quality, and create an attractive, ecologically rich environment in your yard. They rely on a delicate balance of soil, moisture, and native plants to function effectively. However, even with careful planning, plants may occasionally die due to environmental stress, disease, or poor establishment. Replacing…

  • Should I Prune Rain Garden Plants?

    Rain gardens are beautiful, functional landscaping features that help manage stormwater, filter pollutants, and create habitats for local wildlife. They are designed to capture and temporarily hold runoff from roofs, driveways, and other impervious surfaces, allowing water to infiltrate the soil naturally. While selecting appropriate plants for your rain garden is crucial, knowing how and…

  • How Do I Remove Weeds from a Rain Garden?

    Rain gardens are designed to manage stormwater, improve water quality, and create beautiful, ecologically rich landscapes. However, like any garden, they are prone to weed invasion. Weeds can compete with your native plants for nutrients, water, and sunlight, potentially disrupting the delicate balance of your rain garden. Proper weed management is essential to maintain a…