Water is one of our most valuable natural resources. We rely on it for drinking, growing food, and maintaining healthy landscapes. Proper water management is essential to ensure plants and lawns thrive while also preventing damage to your property.

Lawns and gardens benefit most from slow, deep watering that allows moisture to soak into the soil. Seasonal rainfall is ideal, but supplemental watering is sometimes necessary. However, mismanaged water can lead to serious problems. Heavy rain can cause rapid runoff, which erodes topsoil, carves channels through your yard, and destabilizes tree roots. Trees with weakened roots become more susceptible to falling, creating safety hazards. Additionally, low-lying areas that collect water can suffocate plant roots and damage your lawn.

Poor drainage can also threaten your home’s foundation, basement, or crawl space. Showcase Landscape Services recommends you take the first step in addressing drainage issues by identifying the source of the problem. The best time to assess this is during a heavy storm. Walk around your property and observe how water moves. Ask yourself:

• Is water flowing in from a neighboring property?

• Are there obstructions diverting water incorrectly?

• Is the grading of the land directing water toward unwanted areas?

• Are gutters or downspouts clogged, disconnected, or improperly placed?

Start with simple solutions, such as reconnecting downspouts, clearing blockages, or filling in low spots to redirect water. If excessive runoff is a problem, more extensive solutions may be needed. You might have to create new water channels, install drains, or bring in soil to build berms that direct water flow. In some cases, professional contractors and specialized equipment may be required.