REPLACING SOGGY LAWN FOR PLAY AREA WITH WHAT? - Ask Extension
Hi,
I have a soggy lawn that is probably always going to be a wet area because it is flat, poor drainage, and the grass/moss really suck up and retain...
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REPLACING SOGGY LAWN FOR PLAY AREA WITH WHAT? #650590
Asked June 13, 2020, 9:15 PM EDT
Hi,
I have a soggy lawn that is probably always going to be a wet area because it is flat, poor drainage, and the grass/moss really suck up and retain the moisture. I want to have a playhouse with a slide for the kids in this area. What could I use as a ground cover that would be attractive, easy on the kid's knees, and allow the rain to wick off quickly after rain storms? The area is about 14 x 12. I will upload some images of the playhouse with and without the slide.
BTW I graduated with an MBA from OSU's business school in the 1970's.
King County Washington
Expert Response
Hi, thanks for the question. I'm not sure that planting a ground cover is going to solve your problem. Soil compaction is the real culprit here. Seems like you might need to dig some trenches and install drain tile or a storm drain channel to divert the water away from the play area. You should also look to make sure that rain gutters are not directing water into this area.
Here is a link to a WSU publication on lawns that discusses drainage issues.
https://pubs.extension.wsu.edu/home-lawns
You can also contact your King County Master Gardeners with your question. They are offering online plant clinics. Learn more how to do that here - https://extension.wsu.edu/king/gardening/mg/
Here is a link to a WSU publication on lawns that discusses drainage issues.
https://pubs.extension.wsu.edu/home-lawns
You can also contact your King County Master Gardeners with your question. They are offering online plant clinics. Learn more how to do that here - https://extension.wsu.edu/king/gardening/mg/
