As water flows into a raingarden, the entrance point often receives the most stress from the incoming force of water. If water is coming off the street or driveway, this is also where the most sediment builds up. This build up can be unsightly and even harm your plants if it gets too extensive. But there’s hope! An easy trick to reduce the impact of incoming water on your soil is to place a splash rock where the water flows the fastest on it’s way in. This could be a single rock, a few, or up to a dozen. Place them under the downspout coming from the house or between the garden and an impervious surface.

An example of outflow from a down spout causing erosion. A series of splash rocks would slow down the water, protect the soil, and carry the water to where it can infiltrate.

But what happens when sediment builds up around the rocks? This can be an easy maintenance procedure. Simply roll the rocks to the side, scoop out the sediment and roll the rocks back! But don’t limit yourself to rocks… some creative gardens include pottery, colored glass bottles, or old landscaping bricks. Keep an eye out and let us know if you find something unique that works!

A dry creek from the down spout into a raingarden. Many people are surprised that it actually turns into a lively running creek during a rain event, and it’s fun to watch!