The Rain Season Garden

Seattle always gets it rain, so the saying goes. As does the entire Puget Sound region. While photos lead us to believe that gardens exist only under sunny blue skies, it is when our days shorten and our skies gray that our gardens matter the most. Gardens grow from sun, soil and water, and in our environment, water is the influencer, the muse, and the inspiration.

In the garden, rain should be welcome as it sets the mood with the sheen of water enriching the colors and textures of stone, bark and leaves. Cool mornings outdoors, enjoying coffee and the song of raindrops under an awning or pergola extend the enjoyment of outdoor space in the rain season.

This covered dining area provides shelter from the rain and shade from the sun.

A fire feature becomes even more inviting on cool overcast nights, and a hot tub soak can be delightful under light rain. The plants in our gardens provide moments of surprise and events to anticipate with the December bloom of Christmas camelia or the emergence of early spring crocus and hellebores. Hawthorn, viburnum and other berry-producing plants attract chickadees, thrushes, and other birds to enliven the garden and foretell the spring days ahead.

Rain gardens that capture and naturally infiltrate rainwater highlight the interaction of water, soil and plants. The natural rise and fall of water in the rain garden illustrate changes in precipitation and natural hydrology. Rain chains, rills, and artfully designed drain inlets become kinetic sculpture, activated by the flow of water. The rain sings many songs, dripping, drizzling and showering as it strikes the garden’s wood, stone, metal and glass. Harnessed acutely, these instruments harmonize and compose a calming symphony.

Even if the rain keeps you indoors, the plants, rocks, sculpture and sky viewed through a window enhance the comfort of a home. If your garden does not inspire and provide comfort on rainy days, know that it is malleable and can be changed. Let’s pull on our galoshes, take a walk and make a few changes, in the rain.