Hungry rabbits and intense rains followed by dry spells have challenged the young rain gardens along Grand Avenue, but they are still growing strong, according to city planners. The first two years are the most important for plants to get established and keep weeds under control. Many plants already look three years old, even though they were planted only 18 months ago.
Native plants have deep roots. These roots filter pollutants and soak up extra rainwater. This absorption is preventing runoff from overwhelming storm drains, helps with flooding, and keeps city waters cleaner and neighborhoods greener.
So far in 2025:
• April: Crews cleaned up leaves, trash, and weeds. Plants were trimmed by hand.
• Late April: Staff and contractors checked on garden health.
• May: Crews removed invasive plants, filled bare spots, and added mulch to protect soil.
• June: About 1,500 new plants were planted to fill empty areas.
• July: Crews weeded, watered, and checked for erosion after storms.
• August: Routine weeding continued. Sandbags were added to protect gardens at 9 sites.
• September: Erosion repairs were successful. Plants are thriving with watering and care.
Grand Avenue rain garden basins July 2025
Grand Avenue rain garden basins, July 2025
What's next?
• Sandbags: All sandbags will be removed before the snow.
• Boulevards: Property owners care for the grassy boulevard strip, not the rain gardens. If boulevards are overgrown, report them to 311.
• Maintenance: City crews will continue watering, weeding, and checking for erosion.
How can you help?
• Throw away trash and pet waste properly. Keep the rain gardens clean.
• Use less fertilizer and salt on sidewalks and driveways. Take our salt mini-course here.
• Adopt-a-Drain and keep it clean to prevent pollutants from reaching waters.
• Host a storm drain cleanup and stenciling event. Learn how to organize one here.
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