Good plants for 'absorbing' water? When it rains, we have some areas in our yard that really seem to get wet.
Question:Our lot sits a little higher than our neighbors, and we had *so* much rain recently, that you could literally see the water pouring through the privacy fence into their yard. We also have problems with a bit of water on the garage floor when it rains a lot. Are their any plants or shrubs that might help eliminate this problem? We live in Zone 6A (South-Midwest US)
Answers:
You need something with a lot of roots. Contact your local greenhouse/plant store and ask what they would recommend, it's hard to do it online because I can't see how big your yard is. My neighbor had some spots in his yard that were always wet, water standing in it. I told him trees. You don't have to get big trees, just something like a mimosa, it grows full size in 3 yrs. has delicate leaves that do not need raking, and beautiful furry flowers. Also hedges around your perimeter would work
You may actually want to go to the extra expense of consulting with a landscaper/landscape architect who specialized in your area. I had to install a dry well and a French Drain to combat my problem with ground water.
I live in the Northeast, so I'm of no help when it comes to plants for your area.
However, I'm supplying you with a planting zone map so that you can double-check the actual zone you are in.
http://www.usna.usda.gov/hardzone/ushzma...
Then you can begin to "google" some ideas based on your area.
You might want to consider a rainwater collection system. That water could then be used in the dry season. free water!! after you recoup your investment of course. Systems can be as simple or elaborate as you want or need them to be. I live in southern Arizona and use catch water for gardening during the hot season.
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