The other day, we were watching "This Old House", and our favorite landscape designer, Roger Cook, was hard at work. If you ever watched "Victory Garden", you will remember that Roger Cook was the man who got in the garden and got the heavy work done, whether he was hauling in large rocks or hauling out large trees. He often worked with Roger Swain, the gardening guru who was a walking plant encyclopedia. When the "two Rogers" were working on a project, it was a joy to behold! Their enthusiasm and expertise were unparalleled!
Sadly, "Victory Garden" is no longer in production, but at least we can see Roger Cook on "This Old House", and this past week, Roger was demonstrating how to make a rain garden. Have you ever heard of that? It was new to me, and even after I watched the segment I still wanted more information, so I did some reading and this is what I found out.
A rain garden is a planted area, lower than the rest of the yard, that allows rain run-off to collect and filter gently into the soil. It's basically a shallow hole in the ground, with sloped edges. The article I read stated how when urban areas are developed, natural depressions in the landscape are filled in, smoothed over and paved. When a big rain comes, there is no place for water to collect, so it all runs into storm drains. Too much at once can result in flooding.
So the article suggested that a rain garden can be located near a downspout. It can be made beautiful by interesting plantings that include rushes, ferns, or some wild flowers; a layer of rocks at the bottom also adds to the pleasing appearance. Since the water is not being retained, it soaks into the ground and will not usually be a place where mosquitoes can breed. (This is what the article said: but I think we prairie people might be concerned about that!)
The benefits of a rain garden mean water filters naturally into the soil; irrigation for your yard; the water is not wasted down a storm drain; plus it is aesthetically beautiful. It's an interesting idea: the show was done in Portland, Oregon, where they get a lot of rain, so they are likely familiar with the rain garden concept and its benefits.
However, I learned that there is more involved in making a rain garden than just digging a hole in the back yard! Placement and set-up is very important, so if this project sounds like something you would want to try, be sure to do some extensive homework first!
The Yorkton and District Horticultural Society will be holding their annual general meeting on Wednesday, November 24. This is a members meeting, although members cab bring family or guests. We'll enjoy a delicious supper, try our luck at the silent auction, and enjoy a beautiful presentation on Hawaii! For more information call Liz at 782-2830.
Remembrance Day is November 11. Please wear your poppies with pride and respect. We are truly blessed to live in Canada. When we go for our walks, there is a yard along our route that has beautiful red poppies planted along their fence. I always think of the poem "In Flanders Fields" when I see them: the perennial beauty of these simple flowers is a timeless tribute to the brave men and women who gave so much to secure our freedom. They deserve our love and respect, so on Remembrance Day, wear your poppy, take a little stroll, and savor the crisp air and the stillness of peace. Have a great week!
