Here are some questions to ask yourself if you are interested in installing a rain garden:

1. Do I have the space in my yard to install a rain garden? A typical residential rain garden is 50 to 100 square feet, depending on the size of the area draining to it.
2. If I live in an urban area, are there underground utilities that would prevent me from installing a rain garden?
3. If I live in an urban area, does my municipality require a permit to install a rain garden?
4. Am I physically able to install the garden, or do I have help? Even small gardens involve moving fairly large quantities of soil.
5. Large gardens may require the use of heavy equipment. Can I afford to pay for this?
6. Plant costs can be around $1-2 per square foot. Can I afford to pay for this?

• Reduce the amount of pollutants that wash into lakes, streams, ponds and wetlands.
• Help sustain adequate stream flow during dry spells through infiltration and recharge.
• Enhance the beauty of your yard and the neighborhood.
• Help protect communities from flooding and drainage problems.
• Reduce the need for costly municipal storm water treatment structures.

Adapted from University of Wisconsin Extension, Rain Gardens: A How-to Manual for Homeowners.

Smaller gardens can be dug by hand with a shovel, or equipment can be rented for larger gardens. Most gardens for average sized homes can be dug by hand if you are in good health, or have some extra help. Once the shallow depression is dug for the rain garden, it won't take any more time or expense than planting other landscaped areas in your yard.

Build your rain garden to your tastes. While native shrubs and perennials are preferred, you can use other plants (see Plants). This is your garden, you need to like it!