Rain Gardens

Rain gardens are planted depressions in the landscape positioned to catch rainwater runoff from impervious surfaces (like rooftops or driveways) and designed to infiltrate it into the ground, acting like sponges and filtering out pollution carried by runoff. Rain gardens are functional solutions to drainage issues that enhance the natural elements of your yard while protecting your community’s water resources.

Plants that naturally grow in areas affected by water in the landscape, such as streambanks, floodplains, and wetland edges, will work well in rain gardens.

  • Check the recommended plant list in the back of the builders guide.
  • Download an example planting chart to help with planning for visual interest and supporting wildlife.
  • Add your rain garden or a community rain garden to the map!
A large rain garden catches runoff from the 3,600 square foot rooftop of the Auditorium at the UT Arboretum, Oak Ridge, TN, protecting Scarboro Creek and the Clinch River.