If you are a homeowner in Laurel, MD, you know how problematic standing water can be in your yard. It not only makes the area look untidy and unappealing, but it can also be a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other insects. Besides, standing water can cause damage to your property’s foundation if left unattended. However, addressing it correctly can help prevent all these problems. In this blog post, we will look at the top twelve things you can do to deal with standing water in your Laurel, MD yard.

1) Identify the source of the standing water: First, you need to identify where the water is coming from. It could be a simple thing like a low spot in your yard, or it could be a more significant problem like a broken pipe or clogged gutter. Once you identify the source, you can plan a solution accordingly.

2) Fill in low spots: If a low spot in your yard is the source of the problem, you can fill it in with soil and then level it out. This will help prevent water from pooling in that area.

3) Install a French drain: A French drain is a perforated pipe that is buried in a trench filled with gravel. The pipe redirects water away from your yard, preventing it from pooling. Installing a French drain is a job best left to professionals.

4) Improve your yard’s drainage: If poor yard drainage is the reason for standing water, you may need to install additional drainage solutions like catch basins or trench drains. Professional landscapers can help you identify the correct solution for your yard.

5) Use a sump pump: A sump pump is an electric pump that removes water from a low spot in your yard and disposes of it. These are ideal for yards that are prone to flooding.

6) Use mulch: Applying mulch around your yard’s plants and trees can help absorb water and prevent it from running off.

7) Plant water-loving plants: If your yard’s soil is saturated with water, consider planting water-loving plants like ferns, hostas, or cardinal flowers.

8) Create a rain garden: A rain garden is an attractive garden bed that is designed to collect rainwater runoff. These can be a great solution for yards with flooding problems.

9) Divert water from downspouts: Ensure that your gutter downspouts release water away from your yard. You can install a splash block or bury a drainage pipe beneath to direct water to the street.

10) Install a dry well: A dry well works like a sump pump, but instead of removing water, it stores it underground until it is absorbed by the soil. These are a great solution for yards with poor drainage.

11) Store standing water: If the standing water is in a portable container like a bird bath or a rain barrel, use mosquito dunks to prevent mosquito breeding.

12) Seek professional help: If the problem is too big for you to manage, it is wise to seek professional help. The experts can identify the problem’s source and recommend the best course of action.

Conclusion:

Dealing with standing water in your Laurel, MD yard can be a headache, but it is manageable. Identifying the source of the problem is crucial, and you can then choose from the above-listed options that best suit your situation and budget. Remember, standing water in your yard is not only unsightly, but it can also be hazardous to your family’s health and damage your property. By taking the necessary steps to address it, you are investing in the health of your home and your family.