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What can I plant next to my house foundation to absorb water?

Published in Foundation Water Management 4 mins read

To help absorb excess moisture and reduce water pooling around your house's foundation, you can effectively plant grass or low-lying plants such as shallow-rooted perennials and groundcovers. It is crucial to avoid planting trees too close to your home, as their roots can cause significant damage over time.

Why Foundation Water Management is Crucial

Managing water around your home's foundation is vital for preventing structural damage, basement leaks, and mold growth. Proper landscaping, including strategic plant choices, plays a significant role in diverting water away and encouraging absorption. While grading your landscape away from the house is the primary defense, certain plants can provide an additional layer of protection by soaking up surface moisture.

Ideal Plants for Foundation Water Absorption

The best plants for absorbing water near your foundation are those with fibrous, shallow root systems that spread horizontally rather than deep and wide. They should also be low-maintenance and tolerant of varying moisture levels.

1. Grass

Benefits:

  • Excellent Surface Absorber: A healthy lawn acts like a sponge, effectively absorbing rainfall and preventing runoff from pooling directly against the foundation.
  • Easy to Maintain: Grass is relatively simple to care for and can cover large areas uniformly.
  • Cost-Effective: Establishing a lawn is often less expensive than extensive garden beds.

Considerations:

  • Ensure good drainage beneath the grass to prevent waterlogging.
  • Maintain a healthy, thick turf for maximum absorption.

2. Low-Lying Plants and Groundcovers

These plants offer aesthetic appeal while serving a practical purpose. They typically have non-invasive root systems suitable for close proximity to the foundation.

Examples:

  • Perennials: Choose drought-tolerant or adaptable perennials that don't require excessive watering once established, as overwatering can negate their purpose.
    • Daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.): Adaptable and hardy with fibrous roots.
    • Hostas (Hosta spp.): Good for shady areas, though some varieties can get large. Choose smaller, more compact types.
    • Coneflower (Echinacea spp.): Drought-tolerant once established, attracting pollinators.
    • Sedum (Sedum spp.): Succulent varieties are very low water, but some taller ones can help with surface absorption.
  • Groundcovers: These plants spread horizontally, forming a dense mat that helps with water absorption and prevents soil erosion.
    • Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata): Forms a dense mat, excellent for slopes and ground coverage.
    • Liriope (Liriope spicata or muscari): Tough, grass-like groundcover that tolerates various conditions.
    • Vinca Minor (Periwinkle): Evergreen groundcover that spreads well.
    • Pachysandra (Pachysandra terminalis): Good for shady spots, creates a dense cover.
  • Small, Non-Invasive Shrubs: Opt for compact, shallow-rooted shrubs that won't grow large enough to threaten the foundation.
    • Dwarf varieties of Spirea (Spiraea japonica): Compact and adaptable.
    • Hydrangea 'Incrediball' or 'Annabelle' (Hydrangea arborescens): These native varieties have a more fibrous root system compared to some other hydrangeas and are excellent for absorbing water, especially in partial shade. Plant them a few feet away.
    • Dwarf Viburnum (Viburnum opulus 'Compactum'): Offers seasonal interest without an aggressive root system.

Plants to Avoid Near Your Foundation

The most critical avoidance is trees and large shrubs with deep or expansive root systems. Their roots naturally seek out moisture and can penetrate and damage foundation walls, pipes, and walkways as they grow.

  • Trees: Even small trees eventually grow, and their roots can extend far beyond their canopy. Keep trees at least 15-20 feet away, depending on their mature size.
  • Large Shrubs: Varieties that grow into substantial bushes with woody, deep roots should also be planted at a safe distance.

Additional Foundation Landscaping Strategies

While plants play a role, consider these complementary strategies for comprehensive water management:

  • Proper Grading: Ensure the soil around your foundation slopes away from the house at a minimum grade of 6 inches over the first 10 feet. This is the most effective way to direct water away.
  • Gutter and Downspout Management: Direct downspouts away from the foundation using extenders or rain barrels.
  • French Drains: For persistent water problems, consider installing a French drain system to redirect subsurface water.
  • Mulch: A layer of organic mulch over garden beds can help regulate soil moisture, reducing runoff and promoting absorption.

Summary of Plant Types and Benefits

Plant Type Key Benefits Considerations Distance from Foundation
Grass (Lawn) Excellent surface water absorption Needs good underlying drainage; regular maintenance Directly adjacent
Low-Lying Perennials Absorb surface water, aesthetic appeal, shallow roots Choose non-invasive, adaptable varieties 1-3 feet
Groundcovers Dense mat for absorption, erosion control Spreading habit; choose non-aggressive types 1-2 feet
Small, Non-Invasive Shrubs Moderate water absorption, structural interest Ensure dwarf varieties; check mature root spread 2-4 feet
Trees & Large Shrubs AVOID – Aggressive roots cause damage Risk of foundation, pipe, and concrete damage 15-20+ feet (depending on mature size)

By carefully selecting plants with appropriate root systems and combining them with effective grading and drainage solutions, you can significantly reduce the risk of water-related foundation issues.