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Native Gardening
Native Gardening for Stormwater Management
The City of Blue Springs is taking an active approach to reducing pollutants from entering our water system by planting rain gardens throughout the community.
Rain gardens are shallow depressions created to capture rainwater runoff and are planted with deep-rooted native plants. They hold stormwater for an extended period of time, usually less than 48 hours, allowing the plant roots, soil,gravel and mulch to filter the water as it soaks into the ground. These rain gardens are so important because they trap the debris from stormwater that washes across surfaces like rooftops and sidewalks then becomes filled with common pollutants like oil, chemicals, and even pet waste which eventually make their way to our streams.
The Howard L. Brown Public Safety Building and the Benton House of Blue Springs Senior Living Facility are developments integrating rain garden technology to address stormwater pollution. These gardens provide a habitat for local birds and insects, beautify the neighborhoods, and with proper maintenance they will continue to look attractive and function for many years.
Residential Native Gardens & Plants
Gardeners and landscape enthusiasts are choosing native plants for rain gardens and are turning to other native landscaping to manage stormwater, reduce maintenance, and promote plant and wildlife conservation.
Native plants are sustainable as they require minimal watering beyond normal rainfall and have developed their own defenses against many pests and diseases. However, native plants cannot defend themselves against pesticides which commonly kill both pests and beneficial insects.Reducing or eliminating pesticide use lets natural pest control take over and keeps garden toxins out of our creeks and watersheds.
The best place to locate a residential rain garden is usually near the house since the greatest amount of storm water on residential properties comes from the roof and the driveway. Rain gardens can be located near downspouts, next to the driveway or sidewalks, or out in the yard.
To learn how to install a rain garden at your home or to lean more about Missouri's native plants, click here.