How to Correct a Drainage Ditch in a Yard

Identify the source of the problem. Measure the depth of the ditch from one side to another with a measuring stick. To be effective, the ditch must slope at least 2 percent, or 2 inches deeper for every 100 foot or length, to carry water away.

Insert garden stakes on the side of the ditch to indicate any high or low areas that disrupt the slope.

Observe the bottom and side walls of the ditch. Look for eroded walls, exposed dirt and clumps of sticks and other debris that block the flow of water.

Use a shovel or gloved hands to remove debris from the surface of the ditch. Put decomposed sticks and leaves in one bucket to add to a compost pile.

Remove gravel from the bottom of the slope with a shovel. Dump the gravel on the side of the ditch for easy access when it's time to return it. If the bottom of the ditch is not lined with gravel, plan to purchase enough to add a 6-inch layer.

Dig down any high or level areas at the base of the slope, and fill low areas. Use a line level and garden stakes to check that the ditch slopes at 2 percent.

Measure the width of the ditch with a tape measure. If the side walls have eroded, make the ditch wider by digging down along one side. The top should be equal to twice the depth of the ditch. Curve the walls toward the center to prevent debris from building up in corner.

Place geotextile fabric over the bottom half on the ditch. The fabric prevents the gravel from embedding in the dirt, making the ditch more water permeable.

Push the gravel back in the ditch with the shovel. Rake it evenly over the bottom and up the bottom half of the walls.

Seed the top half of the ditch with grass. Ryegrass is one example of a water-tolerant grass that will stabilize soil and slow the flow of water so it drains better.