Gravel is the perfect drainage solution. It’s strong enough to withstand foot and vehicle traffic, and it’s large enough that it easily allows water to move down through it. It is also affordable and easy to lay down. If you use gravel in your landscape design to promote better drainage, you’ll avoid standing water or washing out  the rest of your landscaping. Here’s what you should know. 

A Guide for Gravel-Based Landscaping Drainage

1. French Drains

If drainage is a serious problem in your yard, French drains can fix it. This is a trench filled with gravel that goes through the lowest part of the yard where water accumulates. It should direct the water away from the home and other landscaping to an appropriate place for dispersal. You may want to add a perforated pipe at the bottom of this trench to channel high volumes of water through the drain.

2. A River of Rocks

Gravel can be laid down in a meandering line to resemble a river made of rocks. When placed in the right spot, it will drain water where it pools in your yard while filtering out contaminants, so they don’t get into your groundwater supply.  Create your river in a swale, or the depressions that contour around the base of a slope. Plant some shrubs by it, or even install little wooden bridges, to enhance the look. 

3. Rain Garden

A rain garden is a catch basin which you can plant as a flower bed. This basic will catch water during rainfall, which then feeds the garden inside for a lush result you may not get otherwise. It’s good for a drainage spot that’s too steep to place a swale and isn’t naturally soggy. Place gravel and soil inside for a fast-draining garden bed.

No matter which method you want to use, have a professional install it. Eliot’s Landscape can help you control your drainage while naturally catching water. This landscaping company is based in Bulverde, TX, and serves clients throughout the Spring Branch, Canyon Lake, and New Braunfels areas. They have more than 20 years of experience creating one-of-a-kind spaces with landscape and hardscape design. See their services online and call (800) 369-6079 to schedule a consultation.