Types of water garden pool – comparison 2
Although much of the southern half of Australia is still suffering drought conditions, in many other parts of the country sudden and severe downpours are very much the norm. This is particularly so in tropical regions during the wet season. These downpours can quickly destroy gardens that are not prepared for heavy rain and the resulting runoff. Preparing gardens for these events requires a certain amount of long-term planning.
"Slowing the flow of water across your property is the key to reducing the damage that heavy rain and runoff can cause," says landscape designer Tig Crowley. "The best way to slow the water is to have a healthy, vibrant garden with a wide variety of plants and biodiversity."
Tig says that vegetation helps retard the flow of water above ground and also helps stabilise the soil below ground with its roots. He recommends having a variety of different plants, from trees and shrubs to groundcover and grass-type plants, to ensure well-bound soil and reduce the likelihood of it washing away.
"Tree roots, for example, are usually large and heavy and grow horizontally, whereas grass plants will grow deeper into the soil and are more fibrous," he says. "That variety of root matter helps bind the soil, as well as encouraging the growth of micro-organisms, which aerate the soil and allow the passage and absorption of water."
Heavy rains and moving water can also damage hard landscaping features such as retaining walls, paved areas and paths. Once again, the key is to slow the movement of water onto and across these surfaces, and to channel any excess water onto garden beds and lawns.
Retaining walls can be damaged by water building up behind them and softening their foundations. The weight of this water can push the structure forward and weaken it. In areas where sudden downpours are common, walls should be built with agpipes running behind them. Any excess water flows gently into these pipes and is then transported away into stormwater drains.
Resources