What Is a Swale?

In very basic terms, a swale is a depression in the landscape that captures water runoff.

These occur in nature of course. In our landscapes we can mimic the same features to our benefit our Southern California drought tolerant gardens. Add one to your landscape to slow down water runoff on your property and encourage water to seep deep into the soil.

A swale also qualifies as a water saving feature when you apply for a turf removal rebate with bewaterwise.com

A shallow ditch lined with plants or rocks does the trick. If you have a slope the best positioning is cross wise that slows down drainage, which increases water retention. When you dig the ditch pile the soil on the downside to create an elevated berm to hold the water. If you have a relatively flat space, you can create a berm around all sides, and it serves as a temporary pool. Or, use the excavated soil to create topography of mounds through the planted area, that also slows down drainage.

A swale filled with water from the landscape and roof runoff.

During the intense rainstorms that we often get during the winter, when several inches can downpour in a short amount of time, the swale captures the water that would otherwise flow to the street storm drains. The water seeps into your landscape and supports the water table deeper below.

Even better if you have your roof downspouts channel water to the swale.  

Trees and bushes that have deeper root systems will benefit from the damper conditions along the swale (much like a stream in nature).

Your native plants will eventually spread and mature to surround the swale and create your own ecosystem in your yard. It’s the perfect environment to encourage wildlife and birds!