Build a Rain Garden Between Property Lines in Illinois

Each year, Illinois gets rainstorms that lead to 40 or more flash floods. These floods can bring 4 to 8 inches of rain in just a few hours in some areas.

As a homeowner in Illinois, you will be familiar with the challenges of managing stormwater runoff. A great solution is to build a rain garden between property lines in Illinois. A rain garden is a special garden designed to collect and absorb rainwater from roofs and driveways.

It is a shallow area filled with native plants that help to filter and clean the water before it goes into storm drains. By building rain gardens, homeowners can reduce flooding, prevent erosion, improve water quality, and create a more sustainable neighborhood.

What is a Rain Garden?

A rain garden is a small, shallow garden designed to collect rainwater. It is planted with native flowers and shrubs that help soak up water from roofs, driveways, and sidewalks. The garden holds water for a short time, letting it soak into the ground instead of rushing into drains. This helps clean the water, reduce pollution, and refill groundwater. Rain gardens stay dry most of the time and don’t let mosquitoes breed. They also support local wildlife and are easy to care for once set up, making them a great way to manage rainwater in cities.

Why Build a Rain Garden Between Property Lines in Illinois?

Building a rain garden between homes in Illinois has many benefits. It helps soak up rainwater, reducing flooding and cleaning the water before it reaches rivers. Rain gardens filter out harmful things like fertilizers and oils. They are great for fixing drainage problems in neighborhoods. Working with neighbors to create a shared rain garden can build community and add a beautiful green space. These gardens also support local wildlife. Many towns in Illinois now encourage rain gardens, making them a smart and eco-friendly choice for homeowners.

Choosing the Right Location to Build a Rain Garden Between Property Lines in Illinois

Choose the right spot to build a rain garden between property lines in Illinois. Make sure the garden is at least 10 feet away from buildings and utility lines to avoid damage.

The area should not have big tree roots that can block water flow. Rain gardens need lots of sun, so pick a place that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight each day.

The ground should slope a little to help water drain properly. Check local rules and HOA guidelines, as they may have rules for rain garden placement.

By picking a good, allowed spot, neighbors can work together to create a rain garden that reduces flooding and helps the environment.

Benefits of Rain Gardens

Reduce Flooding

Rain gardens in Illinois can reduce flooding by up to 30%, according to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. These gardens absorb more water than regular lawns, helping to prevent stormwater runoff. Rainwater is captured and slowly absorbed by the soil, which reduces pressure on storm drains.

Increase in Property Value

Adding rain gardens and other eco-friendly landscaping can raise property values. Studies show homes with attractive green spaces can go up in value by as much as 20%. Buyers are drawn to well-kept, sustainable outdoor areas.

Reduces Stress

Being around nature, like in a rain garden, helps lower stress. Research says spending 20 to 30 minutes outside can reduce cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone. This natural setting helps people feel calmer, lifts mood, and improves well-being.

Support Local Wildlife

Native plants in rain gardens attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. This helps local wildlife and keeps the environment healthy.

Improve Water Quality

Rain gardens filter out pollution and dirt from rainwater. This keeps water clean and helps replenish underground water sources.

Enhance Curb Appeal

Rain gardens turn unused spaces into beautiful, easy-to-care-for gardens. They make neighborhoods look better.

Foster Community Spirit

Working with neighbors to build a rain garden brings people together. It creates a sense of shared responsibility for the environment.

Overall, rain gardens help manage water and bring many benefits to homes and communities.

Key Steps to Build a Rain Garden between Property Lines in Illinois

Planning the Garden Layout

Rain gardens typically range from 100 to 300 square feet, though they can be larger if needed. First, measure and mark the area for your rain garden. Pick a spot that naturally gathers rainwater, ideally in a low area of your yard. Make sure it’s at least 10 feet away from buildings to avoid water damage.

Next, decide on the size of your garden. This depends on how much water drains into it and the slope of the land. A good rule is to make the rain garden about 20% of the area that brings in water. 

For instance, if your roof and driveway produce 500 square feet of runoff, your rain garden should be around 100 square feet. Plan for a depth between 4 and 8 inches, based on soil type and drainage needs.

Soil and Drainage Requirements

The soil in Illinois varies widely, with some areas rich in clay, which doesn’t drain as well as sandy or loamy soil. Conduct a percolation test by digging a hole about 12 inches deep, filling it with water, and observing how long it takes to drain. If it takes more than 24 hours, amend the soil with compost or sand to improve drainage.

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Selecting the Right Plants for Rain Garden

When selecting plants for a rain garden in Illinois, it is best to choose native plants suited to the local climate and soil. These plants are low-maintenance and provide food and shelter for wildlife.

Recommended options include Black-eyed Susan, Wild Bergamot, Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), and Prairie Dropseed, which have deep roots that absorb and filter rainwater.

Other great choices are Common Ironweed, Blue Flag Iris, Culver’s-root, Swamp Milkweed, and Great Blue Lobelia, all of which bring color, stabilize the soil, and help control weeds.

By choosing regionally appropriate plants, neighbors can collaborate to create a beautiful, low-maintenance rain garden that enhances the shared space for everyone.

Planting Tips for Your Rain Garden

Layering: Place taller plants in the center or lowest part of the garden and shorter plants along the edges. This design helps with water absorption and adds visual interest.

Soil Preparation: Use well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, and mix in compost to boost water retention and nutrient content. Loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches to promote healthy root growth.

Spacing: Space plants according to their mature size—about 18 inches apart—to avoid overcrowding and ensure proper airflow and sunlight.

Mulching: Add a 2-3 inch layer of mulch to hold moisture, reduce weeds, and keep soil temperatures stable.

Watering: Water the garden thoroughly after planting and regularly until plants are well-established. This helps roots grow deep and strong.

Maintenance: Weed regularly to reduce competition for nutrients. Trim dead or damaged parts to keep plants healthy.

Seasonal Care: Adjust care as seasons change. For winter, protect young plants with an extra layer of mulch or leaves to shield them from frost.

Maintenance Tips for Your Rain Garden

Watering and Establishment

New rain gardens need regular watering, especially in the first year. Water 1-2 times a week, giving about 1 inch of water each time. This helps the plants grow strong roots and become self-sustaining.

Seasonal Upkeep

In spring, remove any weeds that grew over the winter. Trim back any dead or damaged plants. Add a new 2-3 inch layer of mulch to keep moisture in and stop weeds from growing. In the fall, cut back perennials and remove fallen leaves or debris to prepare for winter.

Troubleshooting

Check the rain garden regularly for any problems. If there’s standing water, it could mean the drainage needs fixing. If pests or diseases appear, treat them quickly with natural solutions like insecticidal soap or baking soda.

Local Regulations to Build a Rain Garden Between Property Lines in Illinois

When building a rain garden in Illinois, follow local rules. Keep the garden 25 feet from sewage systems and wells and 10 feet from utilities or buildings.

Make sure the soil stays stable when wet and avoid areas near public water supplies. The garden should have a flat bottom with a slight slope (no more than 0.5%) to help water drain properly.

Direct water to a safe outlet to prevent erosion. Check with local authorities for any permits, as some areas may need approval for drainage or landscaping.

Community Engagement in Rain Gardens

Working Together

Building a rain garden brings neighbors together. It helps everyone share the work and responsibility.

Learning and Growing

Involving the community in planning, planting, and maintaining the garden teaches everyone about eco-friendly landscaping.

Beautifying Shared Spaces

Rain gardens improve the look of public areas and make them more pleasant for everyone.

Caring for Nature

The project helps protect local natural resources. It also gives people pride in taking care of their environment.

Sharing Ideas and Skills

By working together, neighbors can offer different ideas and skills. This makes the garden project more fun and successful for all.

Final Thought: Build a Rain Garden Between Property Lines in Illinois

In conclusion, building a rain garden between property lines in Illinois has many benefits. It helps reduce flooding, improves water quality, and can increase property value.

Working together as a community creates a sense of pride and shared responsibility. Over time, rain gardens help the environment, support local wildlife, and add beauty and value to properties.

FAQs

Do rain gardens require a lot of maintenance?

No, rain gardens are relatively low-maintenance once established. They mainly require occasional wedding, pruning, and replenishing the mulch layer.

Can I plant my rain garden in a shady area?

No, rain gardens perform best in areas that receive 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Choose a sunny location between properties.

How deep should a rain garden be for optimal water absorption?

The ideal depth is 4-8 inches, with gently sloping sides. This shallow depression allows for effective water collection and infiltration.

Are there any Illinois-specific plants for rain gardens?

Yes, great native options for Illinois rain gardens include Black-eyed Susan, Wild Bergamot, Prairie Dropseed, Common Ironweed, Blue Flag Iris, and Swamp Milkweed.

Do I need permission from my neighbor to build a rain garden between our property lines?

Yes, you should consult with your neighbor and get their agreement before building a shared rain garden on the property line. You may also need to check local zoning and HOA regulations.

Can you put a rain garden next to a house? 

It is best to place a rain garden at least 10 feet away from a house to prevent water from seeping into the foundation.

What are the disadvantages of a rain garden? 

Potential disadvantages include the need for regular maintenance, the initial cost of installation, and ensuring it doesn’t become a breeding ground for mosquitoes if not properly managed.

What is the difference between a swale and a rain garden? 

A swale is a shallow ditch that directs water flow to a desired area, while a rain garden is a planted depression designed to absorb and filter runoff.

What is another name for a rain garden?

Another name for a rain garden is a “bioretention area.”