One of the most common problems that happen when the rainy season comes is a swampy garden. You will suddenly have some unwanted ponds that make your backyard look less appealing. Well, standing water is not only about the look but also can cause several problems as well like mosquito manifestation, pest attraction, mud tracks, moss growth, and damaged foundation.

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Of course, you don’t have to hire professionals to solve this problem because you can do it yourself with these four tips!

How to Get Rid of Standing Water

#1 Watch the Soil

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The most common cause of the waterlogged backyard is the type of soil itself. You may have a yard with clayey soil which is bad for drainage compared to sandy soil. Amend it with organic matter like the bark of wood chips and leaves that can improve drainage by breaking up the hardness of the soil. You can also use compost as another alternative.

#2 Decrease the Water

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Watering plans too much or too often could also cause standing water because your plants that already have enough nutrients won’t absorb more than they can take, especially when you have clayey soil. Reduce the amount and time of watering your garden.

If you have been living in the area for a while, you will know the condition of the soil. You might also want to check this when you’re moving to the new area to make sure you the right maintenance method.

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#3 More Thirsty Plants

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Adding some plants that get easily thirsty can help to get rid of standing water and prevent it from happening again. Plants like willow trees, pachysandra, and shrubs are some good options that you can consider. They can suck up the extra water in your backyard which is good for those who live in areas with a lot of rain.

#4 Optimize the Drainage

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The last step is installing some drainages in your backyard (it can also become the last effort to handle the problem). The French drain is the most favorite option that you can keep in mind since it can also give a more attractive touch to the overall look of your outdoor living space.

You just simply need some gravel, PVC Pipes, and landscaping fabric as the main materials for the French drains. Determine the spot where you want to install your French drain, dig the slopes, and lay those materials. Keep in mind to pay attention to the exit point of the water that may affect your neighbors. You may need to find out the local codes and get some permission before you can build the drains.

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So those are the steps that you can follow to get rid of standing water in the backyard and solve the problem by yourself. Please note that these methods are applicable to people who have clayey soil. You might need different ways if you have different cases.