Portland's combined sewer system struggles with heavy winter rains. Our rain gardens are designed to capture roof and driveway runoff before it reaches the streets.
We assess your property's slope, soil composition, and existing drainage to create a depression planted with water-tolerant natives like Douglas aster and slough sedge. The layered system filters pollutants while preventing basement flooding.
For homes in the West Hills or other steep areas, we incorporate tiered basins connected by decorative rock channels. All installations include a maintenance plan to keep plants thriving through dry summers.
We assess your property's slope, soil composition, and existing drainage to create a depression planted with water-tolerant natives like Douglas aster and slough sedge. The layered system filters pollutants while preventing basement flooding.
For homes in the West Hills or other steep areas, we incorporate tiered basins connected by decorative rock channels. All installations include a maintenance plan to keep plants thriving through dry summers.
Our Process
- 01 Step 1: Site evaluation with percolation test and watershed mapping
- 02 Step 2: Custom design matching your home's aesthetic
- 03 Step 3: Excavation with soil amendments for optimal drainage
- 04 Step 4: Planting with 2-year establishment guarantee
Benefits
- Reduces stormwater fees through Portland's Clean River Rewards
- Attracts pollinators with native plant selections
- Prevents soil erosion on sloped properties
- Low maintenance after first two growing seasons
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a rain garden attract mosquitoes?
Properly designed rain gardens drain within 24 hours, eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed. We use gravel layers to accelerate absorption.
How big does my rain garden need to be?
For most Portland homes, we recommend sizing it at 20-30% of your roof's drainage area. A typical 1,200 sq ft bungalow might need a 6x8 ft garden.