How to Prevent Storm Water Runoff Damage in Your Garden

Move your garden to a different part of the yard if it lies in the path of storm water runoff. Monitor the flow of the water during heavy rains so you can identify a better area for the garden. Low-lying areas are often most susceptible to excess water. Putting your garden on a slope also increases the chances of erosion as the rain water runs down the hill.

Build raised beds in your garden area to lift your garden off of the ground. The higher location of the plants keeps them away from the flow of excess rainwater. The boards or blocks used to build the raised beds help divert the flow of water around the garden so the plants aren't damaged. If your garden is on a slope, adding terraces can slow down the runoff for less erosion and damage.

Cover the soil in your garden with mulch to reduce erosion. The mulch layer helps keep the soil in place.

Compost your garden waste so it doesn't get carried away by the storm water runoff. The resulting compost puts nutrients back in your garden so your plants grow well. Strong plants are better able to hold the soil in place and may suffer less damage if some runoff makes its way through the garden.

Collect rainwater from your roof with rain barrels. Traditional downspouts allow the water to flow over the ground. If your garden is near the downspouts, they may direct the runoff right into your garden. Even if the garden isn't in the path, using rain barrels reduces overall storm water runoff and allows you to collect water to use later in your garden.

Plant a rain garden near your garden to encourage the rainwater to soak into the ground instead of run over the surface. A rain garden usually goes in a low-lying area where the storm water runs. Plants native to your local area work best for the rain garden, as they are suited to the rainfall and growing conditions of the area. Native wildflowers and ornamental grasses are examples of plants to use in the garden.

Remove large areas of nonpermeable surfaces, such as concrete pads. If your garden is located near a patio or other large, nonpermeable structure, the water is likely to run right over the surface and into your garden. If you can't remove these surfaces, move your garden to a different area.