Shape the Landscape to a Working Rainscape

With so much recent knowledge about rainscaping, the flood of information can often be overwhelming. So, we’ve taken our favorite tips and compiled some of them to help you learn more about shaping your landscape into a functional, working rainscape.

What Is a Rainscape?

Simply put, rainscaping is your chosen combination of plantings, permeable pavement, water features, catch basins, and other endeavors to better manage stormwater. Rather than moving stormwater to an alternate location, the goal is to manage the water from close to where it falls. Through rainscaping, you can:

• Control soil erosion and help solve drainage problems.
• Welcome wildlife and increase biodiversity.
• Increase curb appeal and property values.
• Directly, positively contribute towards cleaner water.
• Stabilize and conserve soil.
• Enjoy your yard more and enhance your mental well-being.
• Reduce watering needs by selecting hardy, native plants.
• Reduce air pollution by mowing your lawn less.

To start rainscaping your own landscape, explore some of these landscape options:

Permeable Paving. Creating impermeable surfaces is a downside to paving in your outdoor garden. When it rains, instead of soaking into the soil and nourishing your plants, rainwater is instead dumped into nearby storm drains. Luckily, there’s a solution — permeable paving. Our favorite solutions are naturally permeable materials like gravel and decomposed granite. Breaking up concrete into large squares provides a stable surface for walking while still allowing space for more permeable gravel.

Rain Garden. Planned rain gardens slow the outflow of rainwater by incorporating natural elements like plants, stones, shallow swales, and ground depressions. Plants with deep and fibrous root systems help make the soil more permeable and ready to absorb large amounts of rainwater. Native plants able to withstand both wet and dry conditions are preferred.

Mulching. Annually applying organic mulch is an important component of reducing soil compaction, improving soil quality, and increasing infiltration capacity. Naturally, you will begin to see healthier, better plant growth and sturdier root systems. If you’re a tree lover, then mulching is definitely a fantastic option for you!

Are you considering adding rainscaping to your landscape design? Contact TMS Architects today to schedule a consultation.