Cincinnati Rain Garden Landscape Design

Solving Drainage Issues with a Native Rain Garden (Hyde Park)

a rain garden using native plants in Cincinnati — AFTER: The rain garden in its second season. The rain garden helps manage stormwater and solves drainage issues using a mixture of native plants, including goat’s beard and native ferns.

The Challenge

This Hyde Park family was routinely stressed by drainage issues during rain events, which were damaging the driveway over time.

The downspout in question was collecting approximately 835 square feet of runoff. In a 1” rain event, this meant roughly 520 gallons of water was being dispersed in area that was not designed for it.

The garden area next to the roof was underdeveloped and consisted of mostly invasive vinca. The homeowners contacted Our Land Organics in the hopes of addressing the runoff issue and improving the aesthetics of this highly visible spot.

solving drainage issues in Cincinnati — BEFORE: Drainage issues were contributing to eyesores in front of the house and causing driveway damage.

The Transformation

A rain garden filled with native plants provided a solution to both the drainage issues and the need for improved aesthetics.

rain garden design Cincinnai — A comprehensive landscape design features native plants in a rain garden that helps solve drainage issues and protect the driveway from further damage.

The planting palette needed to be shade-tolerant and able to endure short, intense wet periods as well as long dry spells. After a season or two, the plants touch ‘green to green,’ shading the ground and reducing weed pressure.

The Takeaway

Native plants can meet so many needs, including the need for effective stormwater management. A rain garden featuring native plants is just what this family needed to solve drainage issues and enhance the beauty of their home’s entrance.