If fall storm season drenches your yard, and it looks more like a pit than a landscape by the time spring returns, you probably have a drainage problem. There are many solutions available to control water problems, but one very simple option is to install a dry creek bed.
A dry creek bed is an excellent option for two reasons. One, it is attractive. Two, it is effective. If done correctly, you will have a beautiful way of relocating the floodwaters of your lawn that will also serve as an attractive landscape feature.
Don’t work against nature or gravity. The water pooling up in your yard likely has a natural flow, so track that flow, and that’s where your creek should be. Look for natural paths where water would tend to flow away from your buildings or away from the center of your yard. The path of least resistance will lead to a successful dry creek bed.
If you have a tractor, this is a good time to get it out. Cultivators and rakes can be used to loosen dirt and remove dirt, but you’ll probably have to use some elbow grease and some hand tools as well. Typically, this means a spade shovel, a flat shovel, and a pick ax. When landscaping, make sure you maintain a slope for the water to flow away from your property. If away from your property means neighbor’s yard, this may turn into a community project.
Next, you need to line your trench, so it doesn’t get any weeds growing in it. Weed fabric will do just fine, and this will also help the water flow a little better.
The bottom layer of your dry creek bed should be pea gravel because this will drain easily. At least a half inch is necessary to ensure good drainage.
Lastly, add rocks of different sizes. Larger river rock can make the dry creek bed look like more of a natural part of your yard. Also, drought-tolerant plants can add beauty to the margins of your new landscape element.
The next time it pours, you’ll be able to relax knowing that your lawn will not be demolished by pools of unwanted rainwater. You can also drain the water to a catch basin that will provide you with healthy water to recycle.
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Greenfeet Lawncare Provides Service to the Following Areas.
770-619-2929
North Fulton, East Cobb, Cherokee, Forsyth Counties - including Alpharetta, Canton, Cobb, Cumming, Dunwoody, Gwinnett, Johns Creek, Marietta, Milton, Roswell, Sandy Springs
