Best Plants For Managing Roof Runoff In Your Garden

Are you looking for ways to manage the water that runs off your roof when it rains? A rain garden is a good option and can be filled with the best plants for roof runoff in order to control water flow. In this guide, we’ll explore some top plant choices and how they can help reduce runoff in your yard.

In this blog post, we will discuss all there is to know about rain gardens and which plants work well in the weather of Memphis, TN. 

At Jamison Pest and Lawn, we serve the regions of Tennessee and Northern Mississippi with high-quality pest control and lawn care services. If you are looking for lawn care management in Memphis, TN, or the nearby areas, call us today at (901) 457-9405.

Why Does Managing Roof Runoff Matter?

Before we discuss the best plant options for managing rainwater runoff at your home, let’s talk about why it’s important to manage roof runoff in the first place. When rain falls on your roof’s surface, it flows down and often ends up in the gutters which travels down through a downspout out onto the ground below. Without proper methods for drainage, this puddle of water at the end of your gutter system can lead to erosion, flooding, and water pollution. By using plants to catch and slow the flow of water, you can:

1. Prevent soil erosion in your yard.
2. Reduce flooding in your neighborhood
3. Filter out pollutants before they reach waterways
4. Recharge groundwater supplies
5. Create a healthier garden ecosystem

Now, let’s look at some of the best plants for managing roof runoff.

How Do Plants Reduce Roof Runoff?

You might wonder how planting trees and other vegetation actually reduces runoff. Here’s how:

1. Roots create channels in the soil that allow water to soak in more easily.
2. Leaves and stems slow down rainwater, giving it more time to absorb into the ground.
3. Plants use water for growth, reducing the amount that runs off.
4. Vegetation helps prevent soil erosion, keeping nutrient-rich soil in place.

By using a mix of trees, shrubs, and perennials, you can create layers of protection against runoff in your yard.

Top Plants For Reducing Water Runoff

Here are some of the top plants that you can choose for your rain garden. 

#1 Cardinal Flower

The cardinal flower is a great choice for areas prone to water runoff. Its bright red blooms aren’t just pretty, they’re also practical. They have fibrous roots that help hold soil in place and they thrive in moist areas. By planting cardinal flowers near downspouts or in low areas where water collects the soil will be much more stable as they help soak up excess water.

#2 Joe-Pye Weed

Joe-Pye weed is another excellent plant for managing runoff. It’s especially a good option for rain gardens and low-lying spots that are too soggy for grass. This tall plant with pink flower clusters can grow up to 7 feet high. It’s a native plant in many areas, making it a low-maintenance choice.

#3 Swamp Milkweed

Don’t be misled by the name—swamp milkweed is both a beautiful and highly useful plant. It’s ideal for stormwater basins, helping to manage water flow and improve drainage while also preventing soil erosion.

Additionally, swamp milkweed plays a vital role in supporting monarch butterfly caterpillars, their primary food source. By planting it, you’re not only controlling runoff but also supporting crucial pollinators.

#3 Blue Flag Iris

Blue flag iris is a stunning perennial that’s perfect for wet areas. This plant is native to wetlands and grows well in moist soil which makes them an excellent choice for rain gardens.

Blue flag irises bloom in late spring to early summer, and they add a pop of color to your yard while helping manage water flow.

#4 Switchgrass

Switchgrass is a versatile plant that’s great for various water management needs. It is tolerant of both dry and wet conditions which makes them an excellent choice for the weather in Tennessee. They are good for rain gardens and bioswales. They are deep-rooted, which helps prevent erosion

#6 Coneflower

Coneflowers are popular garden plants that can also help manage runoff. These plants are drought-resistant and are able to adapt with wet-dry soil cycles. These blooming flowers come in various colors and also attract bees and butterflies. They’re a great way to add beauty to your runoff management system.

#7 Great Blue Lobelia

Great blue lobelia is a beautiful option for partially shaded, moist areas, thriving in wet to moist soil. Its nectar-rich flowers attract a variety of pollinators and bring a vibrant splash of blue to your garden. Plant it near downspouts or in low-lying spots to help manage water flow effectively.

#8 Marsh Marigold

Marsh marigold is an early-blooming perennial that’s perfect for wet areas. They’re useful for runoff management because they can survive well in moist areas. They are one of the first plants to bloom in spring and help absorb excess water.

How To Create A Rain Garden

One of the best ways to use these plants is in a rain garden. A rain garden is a shallow depression in your yard designed to catch and filter roof rainwater runoff. Here’s how to create one:

1. Choose a spot at least 10 feet from your house where water naturally flows
2. Dig a shallow basin, about 6 inches deep
3. Mix compost into the soil to improve drainage
4. Plant your chosen runoff-friendly plants
5. Add a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and prevent weeds

What Are The Benefits of Using Native Plants?

When choosing plants to reduce runoff, consider native species. Plants that naturally grow in your area often:

1. Need less water once established

2. Resist local pests and diseases better

3. Provide food and shelter for local wildlife

Native plants in Tennessee that help reduce nutrient runoff include Joe-Pye weed and blue flag iris. 

Hire Us For Top Quality Lawn Management Services In Memphis, TN

If you also want to protect your garden from roof runoff or other common lawn problems look no further than the team at Jamison Pest and Lawn. We are known for providing the best lawn management services, including the following: 

• Pest control
• Lawn aeration 
• Pre emergent weed control & more! 

Trust us as your reliable partner for lawn care management in Memphis, TN and the surrounding areas, and get valuable results. To learn more, give us a call at (901) 452-1505 to speak with one of our experts.