Rain Gardens

Managing Water Sustainably in the Garden and Designed Landscape

Rain gardens encompass all possible elements that can be used to capture, channel, divert and make the most of the rain and snow that fall on a property. Using the innovative and attractive approaches described here, it is possible to enhance outdoor spaces and minimize the damaging effects of drought, stormwater runoff, and other environmental challenges. Nigel Dunnett & Andy Clayden have created a comprehensive guide to water management techniques for the garden and built environment. Filled with practical, manageable solutions for small and large-scale implementations and utilizing authoritative research with state-of-the-art case studies from all over the world, Rain Gardens is the first book on sustainable water management schemes suitable for students and professionals.

Media reviews of this book:

"Every bit as appealing as its title, Rain Gardens tells us what to do as we find ourselves in a built environment where much of the earth is paved over and our supply of cheap water is diminishing. An educational, practical, timely, and inspiring book."

—Katherine Cook, Pacific Horticulture, July/August 2008

"Informs gardeners about the many types of rain gardens that are being developed for home as well as public use. ... Easy to use with lots of photographs and illustrations."

—Carol Wiese, Chicago Sun-Times, November 2, 2007

"Well-illustrated with color photographs and plans, this volume surveys the many creative and effective solutions ... of capturing and using rainwater as part of a building's design. ... Among those who will find the ideas of interest are landscape architects, architects, gardeners, and residential homeowners."

—Book News, November 2007

"If you need to install a rain garden, rejoice. The elegant, functional, and beautifully designed gardens in Rain Gardens ... will be an invaluable resource for those with soggy soil."

—Ann Lovejoy, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, October 11, 2007

"More readable than the somewhat clunky title suggests. It's also the first comprehensive guide to water management for home gardeners. Here are practical solutions to rainwater runoff, from green-roofed garden sheds to swales and ponds."

—Valerie Easton, Seattle Times, October 9, 2007

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Customer reviews of this book:

"Just the book I was looking for — I was trying to figure something out myself in this regard. Thank you for being there before me."

—Jim C. from Edinburg, Virginia, January 22, 2008

"Not a better book out there on this subject."

—Joshua W. from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, November 13, 2007

"Fabulous look at design and function of rain gardens. Great case studies and examples!"

—Shaun S. from Flint, Michigan, October 24, 2007

"First information I have found on the subject. Well written and very relevant to new landscaping needs."

—Kay D. from Windsor, Colorado, June 22, 2007

"I have a foundation pond in my front yard and needed some ideas. Thank you!"

—Lori W. from Sebring, Florida, June 20, 2007