A Comprehensive Guide to Building a Rain Garden Between Property Lines in Illinois

Introduction

Rain gardens have emerged as an effective and environmentally friendly solution to managing stormwater runoff and preventing flooding. They are designed to collect and infiltrate rainwater into the ground, reducing the strain on storm sewer systems and improving water quality. In Illinois, where heavy rainfall events are common, building a rain garden between property lines offers several benefits.

Benefits of Building a Rain Garden Between Property Lines

• Reduces flooding: Rain gardens intercept runoff from roofs, driveways, and other impervious surfaces, preventing it from accumulating and causing flooding.
• Improves water quality: By filtering pollutants from stormwater, rain gardens protect waterways from contamination and support aquatic life.
• Recharges groundwater: The infiltrated water replenishes groundwater aquifers, which are vital sources of drinking water.
• Provides wildlife habitat: Rain gardens attract birds, butterflies, and other wildlife by offering food and shelter.
• Enhances aesthetics: The lush vegetation and colorful flowers of a rain garden add beauty and value to your property.

Planning Your Rain Garden

1. Choose a Location:

• Select a low-lying area between property lines that receives significant runoff.
• Avoid placing the rain garden near foundations, septic systems, or utilities.
• Ensure that the area has good drainage and is not prone to standing water.

2. Determine Garden Size:

• The size of your rain garden depends on the amount of runoff it needs to accommodate.
• As a general rule, the garden should be sized to capture 10-20% of the impervious surfaces that drain into it.
• For example, if your roof is 1,000 square feet, your rain garden should be 100-200 square feet.

3. Design Your Garden:

• Create a design that complements your landscape and integrates well with your property lines.
• Use native plants that are tolerant of wet and dry conditions.
• Consider including a variety of plants to provide year-round interest and wildlife habitat.

Building Your Rain Garden

1. Mark the Boundaries:

• Stake out the perimeter of your garden using a garden hose or string.
• Dig a trench along the stakes, approximately 6 inches wide and 6 inches deep.

2. Create a Sunken Area:

• Within the marked boundaries, dig out the soil to create a sunken area.
• The depth of the sunken area should be 4-8 inches, with sloping sides.
• The bottom of the sunken area should be level.

3. Amend the Soil:

• Mix the excavated soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
• Spread the amended soil over the bottom of the sunken area.

4. Install Plants:

• Dig holes in the amended soil and plant your chosen plants.
• Space plants according to their mature size and growth habits.
• Water the plants deeply after planting.

5. Mulch Around Plants:

• Spread a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded leaves or wood chips, around the plants.
• Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Maintenance Tips

• Water regularly: Especially during dry periods, water your rain garden deeply to maintain moist soil conditions.
• Control weeds: Remove weeds promptly to prevent them from competing with your plants for water and nutrients.
• Replace plants: As plants die or outgrow their space, replace them with appropriate native species.
• Inspect after storms: Check your rain garden for erosion or damage after heavy rain events and make necessary repairs.

Stories to Inspire

1. The Rain Garden Mistake:

One homeowner, eager to build a rain garden, mistakenly placed it too close to his foundation. When heavy rains came, the runoff saturated the soil around the foundation, causing cracks and water leakage into the basement.

Lesson: Always plan the location of your rain garden carefully, avoiding areas that could be compromised by excessive moisture.

2. The Wildlife Surprise:

Another homeowner installed a rain garden filled with native wildflowers. To her delight, the garden soon attracted a family of rabbits that made it their home. While the rabbits did some nibbling on the plants, they also provided endless entertainment and brought joy to the homeowner.

Lesson: Rain gardens not only manage stormwater but can also create a beautiful and welcoming habitat for wildlife.

3. The Landscaping Enhance:

A landscaper transformed a narrow strip of land between two properties into a stunning rain garden. The garden featured a meandering path, colorful perennials, and a bubbling water feature. It became a focal point of both adjacent yards, enhancing the aesthetics and adding value to the properties.

Lesson: Rain gardens can be designed to complement and enhance the beauty of your landscape.

Tables for Reference

Table 1: Suitable Native Plants for Rain Gardens in Illinois

Table 2: Estimated Construction Costs for a Rain Garden

Table 3: Flood Reduction Efficiency of Rain Gardens

Tips and Tricks

• Use a rain barrel or cistern to collect rainwater for watering your garden and reducing runoff.
• Consider installing a French drain to redirect excess runoff from your property.
• Mulch your lawn and plant trees to reduce impervious surfaces and promote infiltration.
• Educate your neighbors about the benefits of rain gardens and encourage them to participate in building their own.

FAQs

1. Do I need a permit to build a rain garden?

In most cases, no permit is required for a rain garden. However, it is always recommended to check with your local municipality.

2. How often should I clean my rain garden?

Clean your rain garden twice a year, in spring and fall. Remove any debris, weeds, or dead vegetation.

3. What if my rain garden floods?

If your rain garden is flooding, check for clogged drains, overflowing gutters, or excessive runoff. Make necessary adjustments to resolve the issue.

4. How can I involve my community in building a rain garden?

Reach out to your neighbors, school groups, or local environmental organizations to form a team and build a rain garden that benefits your entire community.

5. Where can I find more resources on rain gardens?

• Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA): https://www2.illinois.gov/epa/topics/water-quality/Pages/rain-gardens.aspx
• University of Illinois Extension: https://extension.illinois.edu/rain-gardens
• American Rainwater Harvesting Alliance: https://www.arha.org/rainwater-harvesting/

6. How much do rain gardens cost?

The cost of building a rain garden varies depending on its size and complexity. Refer to Table 2 for estimated construction costs.

Conclusion

Building a rain garden between property lines in Illinois is a rewarding and impactful way to manage stormwater, improve water quality, and enhance your landscape. By following the guidelines and tips outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can create a beautiful and functional rain garden that benefits your property and the environment for years to come.