Maryland’s weather can be unpredictable, with storms causing flooding, erosion, and property damage. Here’s how to protect your yard:

1. Fix Water Drainage: Install French drains, regrade your yard, and maintain gutters to manage stormwater.
2. Prepare Trees: Trim weak branches and stabilize young trees to prevent wind damage.
3. Secure Outdoor Items: Anchor furniture and fix cracks in patios or walls to avoid hazards.
4. Protect Plants and Soil: Use mulch, plant deep-rooted natives, and elevate beds to reduce erosion and flooding.
5. Get Expert Help: Hire professionals for custom drainage, tree care, and hardscape reinforcement.

Stormwater Management – Residential BMPs featuring …

1. Fix Water Drainage Issues

Managing water drainage is crucial for avoiding flooding and erosion, especially during Maryland’s frequent storms. With the state’s clay-heavy soil, standing water can worsen erosion, making an effective drainage system a must.

Install Drainage Solutions

Here are some ways to control water flow and reduce pooling:

• Use French drains (perforated pipes surrounded by gravel) to move water away from your home.
• Shape berms and swales to direct surface water and reduce erosion risk.
• Add box drains and pipes to handle heavy stormwater runoff.
• Regrade your yard to ensure water flows away rather than collecting in low areas.
• Install a sump pump to keep your basement dry during heavy rains.

Keep Gutters in Good Shape

Gutters and downspouts play a big role in water management. Here’s what to do:

• Clear out leaves and debris regularly.
• Make sure downspouts are clear and properly angled.
• Extend downspouts to carry water further from your home’s foundation.

Once your drainage system is under control, it’s time to focus on preparing your trees for strong winds.

2. Prepare Trees for Storms

Once drainage issues are addressed, focus on strengthening trees to handle strong winds. This involves trimming fragile branches and providing support for young trees.

Trim Trees Regularly

Schedule yearly tree trimming to get rid of dead or weak branches that could break during a storm.

Stabilize Young Trees

Use stakes to support young trees until their roots are firmly established. This helps prevent them from being uprooted in high winds.

Afterward, turn your attention to securing outdoor furniture and checking hardscaping to finish your storm preparation.

3. Prepare Your Outdoor Items for Storms

Once you’ve secured your trees, it’s time to focus on outdoor items and hardscape features. High winds can turn unsecured objects into hazards, so taking precautions here helps reduce potential damage.

Secure Outdoor Furniture and Décor

Bring lightweight furniture and decorations indoors before a storm. Use straps or ground anchors to secure heavier items like benches, grills, and planters.

Check and Fix Hardscape Features

Take a close look at patios, walkways, driveways, retaining walls, fire pits, and veneers. Look for cracks or loose sections, as these can let water in or even lead to structural failure. Fix any issues as soon as possible to keep everything intact.

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4. Protect Plants and Soil

Take steps to shield plants and soil from storm damage.

Use Mulch and Ground Cover

Spread 2–3 inches of mulch, like shredded bark or compost, around the base of plants. Leave about a ½-inch gap around stems to prevent rot. For sloped areas or spots with heavy runoff, ground cover can help stabilize the soil.

Opt for Deep-Rooted Plants

Go for native plants with deep root systems. These include native grasses, shrubs, and perennials that help anchor the soil and hold up better against strong winds. Their roots also reduce erosion and keep soil in place.

Elevate Plant Beds

Raised beds can help protect plants from flooding by channeling water away from their roots. They also help control water flow and prevent soil from washing away. Consider hiring a professional to grade the beds properly and ensure good drainage ^[1].

5. Get Expert Help

Once you’ve secured plants, trees, and hardscapes, consider hiring professionals to ensure your property is well-protected for the long term.

Pro Landscapes MD provides specialized stormproofing services, including:

• Custom drainage solutions
  Options include French drains, dry riverbeds, box and pipe drain systems, sump pump installations, and land grading to improve water flow.
• Tree care and protection
  Services cover planting storm-resistant tree species, professional trimming, and installing support systems for young trees.
• Hardscape reinforcement
  This includes building retaining walls, repairing patios and walkways, and implementing erosion control measures.
• Property-wide protection
  Comprehensive services like drainage assessments, soil stabilization, and stormwater management planning.

These services are designed with Maryland’s specific weather conditions and soil types in mind. Not only do they safeguard your property, but they also add to its overall appeal and value with well-thought-out designs.

Build a Storm-Ready Landscape

Creating a landscape that can handle Maryland’s storms involves a mix of smart planning and ongoing care. Focus on proper drainage, regular tree maintenance, secure hardscaping, sturdy plant choices, and consistent upkeep to protect your property.

Pro Landscapes MD offers services like custom drainage solutions, tree care, and reinforced hardscaping tailored to Maryland’s unique conditions, helping safeguard your landscape against severe weather.

Don’t forget to schedule inspections and maintenance to keep your property prepared for storms all year long.

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