Rain Gardens: Managing Rainwater Sustainably In The Garden And Designed Landscape

"Rain Gardens" describes how gardeners and professional landscapers can make the most of the rainwater that falls on a property by using a range of strategies to collect and store this increasingly precious commodity. By capturing, channeling, filtering, and diverting water using the innovative and attractive methods described here, it is possible to enhance outdoor spaces and minimize the damaging effects of drought, stormwater runoff, and other environmental challenges.
First, it is important to understand how the rainwater cycle works: what happens to rain after it falls on our buildings, streets, parks, and gardens? One of the effects of the built environment is that rainwater is drawn off into drains and reservoirs instead of flowing back into the environment. Essentially, rain gardens endeavor to mimic the natural environment using various methods to capture rainwater and hold on to it for as long as possible. Even quite simple techniques are effective, such as rain chains that carry water from gutters into collections barrels, and diverting downpipes. The book goes on to explore more elaborate systems using case studies from all over the world that feature filtration banks, stormwater planters, green roofs, and bioretention schemes. Plant selection and planting plays an important role in rain gardens and a comprehensive directory provides lists of plants suitable for different purposes. This important book will enhance our gardens and public spaces and heighten awareness of the crucial role rainwater plays in our environment.