Saturday, June 14, 2025

How I Finally Fixed My Soggy Backyard

 



For years, our backyard turned into a swamp every time it rained more than an inch. My DIY attempts - digging trenches, adding sand, even trying to "will it away" - all failed spectacularly. After my third pair of shoes got sacrificed to the mud pit, I finally admitted defeat and started researching professional solutions.

That's when I found PTG Landscaping's Services page. Their drainage solutions section showed me there were actual engineered systems for this exact problem - not just my haphazard digging.

What I Learned

  1. Essex's clay soil is basically nature's sponge (it absorbs water but won't let it drain)

  2. French drains need proper gravel and fabric to work long-term

  3. Grading is both an art and science

Why This Page Helped
Their examples specifically addressed:
✔ Baltimore County's common drainage issues
✔ Local regulations about water runoff
✔ Native plants that help absorb excess water

The Solution We Chose

  • dry creek bed with Maryland river rock

  • Rain gardens with native plants like Joe-Pye weed

  • Regrading to direct water away from the house

Final Thoughts
A year later, our backyard stays usable even after heavy rains. Turns out there's a reason professionals exist - and I should've called one years ago!

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