Garden Drainage – bad drainage in my garden

I have a garden drainage problem so … can anyone give me any ideas on how to stop my garden flooding every time we have a down pour.
its only a tiny front garden but it is turfed.
i did get told sand helps but am unsure if this is true.
gravel is not an option as i have children who have an interest in throwing stones lol

9 Responses to “Garden Drainage – bad drainage in my garden”

green_eyedgirl81 Said:

Try installing a new drainage spout or clearing out your existing one. If that doesn’t work and you are determined to have a garden in that spot, put in a rock bed and plant water loving or pond plants. Sand will help some but not completely.
connor g Said:

I too have this problem but on a bigger scale. You could try putting extensions on your downspouts to take the water away from the house. You might also look into putting French drains in the yard to divert the water. Mixing sand in with your soil might help but if you have clay soil you are going to have a big job. Standing water will eventually kill the sod-it invites all sorts of diseases to take over the grass.
victor Said:

A permanent solution would be to get rid of the turf and replace it with a decorative gravel this is excellent for drainage and will solve your problem.
michelle j Said:

I have the same problem. A friend once put something into the affected area called ‘wavy coil’ . Its plastic tubing with holes that allow the water to drain through. Its cheap and you can get it from B&Q etc. What you do is: dig a trench and make sure that the lie of the land allows the water to drain downwards (so when you dig the trench you dig enough gradient to ensure the water can flow). It did make a considerable difference. Good Luck
V T Said:

Have you thought about raising your garden? Use about three to four deep rows of edging blocks (like in a circle), put about an inch to 1/2 inch of gravel on the bottom, filll the rest with good planting soil, and plant. You could also try a whiskey barrel or something to that nature. I have raised gardens all over my yard, mostly built with landscape timbers and the are so much easier to weed! (saves on the back strain!)
Geri H Said:

One option would be to terrace it and put in a rain garden. Check out for info on how to install one. They slow the flow of the water.
Indigo Said:

clearing it might help
Neil Mac Said:

Probably a drainage tranch, filled with gravel and rubble then re-turfed. But a lot of work and messy.
ron r Said:

you need to put drain pips in at about 24in deep

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