Can Planting Grass Help with Standing Water in Yard?

Standing water in your yard can cause a variety of problems, from creating a breeding ground for mosquitoes to killing your lawn. It can be frustrating to watch water pool in your yard after a storm or heavy rain, but planting grass may be able to help solve the issue. In this article, we will explore how planting grass can help with standing water in your yard and what steps you can take to ensure success.

How Does Grass Help with Standing Water?

Grass is an excellent absorber of water, and it can help reduce standing water in your yard in several ways. Firstly, grass can help prevent soil erosion by holding the soil in place, which can reduce the amount of runoff that occurs during rain. Secondly, the roots of grass plants can absorb water from the soil, helping to remove excess water from the yard. Finally, the dense foliage of grass can slow down the movement of water, allowing it to penetrate the soil and reducing the amount of standing water on the surface of the yard.

What Type of Grass is Best for Reducing Standing Water?

If you're interested in planting grass to help with standing water, you'll want to choose a variety that is well-suited to your soil type, climate, and yard conditions. Generally speaking, grass varieties that have deep root systems and can tolerate wet soils are best for reducing standing water. Some grasses that perform well in wet soils include Zoysia, Bermuda, and St. Augustine. However, it is always best to speak with a local landscaping professional to determine the best grass variety for your specific yard conditions.

How to Plant Grass to Reduce Standing Water

Before you start planting grass to reduce standing water, you'll need to prepare your yard properly. Here are some steps you can take to ensure success:

Test your soil: Make sure you know what type of soil you have and what nutrients it needs before you begin planting.

Improve drainage: Consider adding drainage channels, swales, or catch basins to your yard to help remove excess water.

Choose the right grass variety: Select a grass variety that is well-suited to your soil and climate.

Plant at the right time: Plant your grass at the appropriate time for your region to ensure the best chance of success.

Maintain regularly: Water and fertilize your grass as needed to help it establish a strong root system.

Conclusion

Planting grass can be a practical and natural way to reduce standing water in your yard. By selecting the right grass variety, preparing your yard properly, and maintaining your new grass well, you can help prevent water from pooling in your yard and causing damage. If you're experiencing standing water in your yard, consider planting grass as a solution.