How to Create a French Drain

French drains are used to divert excess standing water from one area of the garden or yard to another area. It can be a great water-saving feature if the garden is planned properly. Run a French drain from one area of the garden that has plants that do not tolerate soggy soil to another area with plants that do not get enough water. French drains are also hidden under the soil and grass or other shallow-rooted plants can be planted on top of the French drain.

Things You'll Need

• Small stone (about 1 inch in diameter) Sand Sod

Instructions

1. Dig the French drain to at least 18 inches deep and at least a foot wide. Remove any excess loose dirt at the bottom. Layer 2 inches of small stone along the length and width of the French drain.

2. Pour sand over the stone, making sure the sand gets between the stone. Continue filling with sand until the sand is 2 inches over the top of the stone. Pack the sand down by walking on it. Hose the sand down using the spray function of a water nozzle. Just wet the sand down, not move it around.

3. Add another 2-inch layer of small stone. Cover the stone with sand, making sure the sand works its way between the stones. Pack the sand in by walking on it. Spray the sand with the spray function on the water nozzle. Once the sand dries, add another 4 inches of sand and pack it down.

4. Backfill the rest of the space with soil (you can use the soil you dug out of the ground). Cover it all with sod or plant other plants on top of the French drain. The stone, sand and soil will eventually settle, making an indentation in the ground.

5. Prevent a large indentation over the top of the French drain by piling the soil so it is level with the top of the drain, then add the sod. If you are going to be planting other plants on top of the French drain, mound the soil so that it is an inch over the top of the rim of the French drain. Over time, the soil will settle and the ground will be level.