How to fix a soggy lawn with a simple drainage system?

 
Assess the Lawn and Identify Problem Areas
 

• Walk through the lawn and mark areas that remain consistently wet after rainfall.
• Note depressions, compacted zones, or low-lying areas where water collects.
• Take measurements of affected areas to estimate the extent of drainage needed.

 
Plan Your Drainage System
 

• Decide on the type of simple drainage system to install; a common option is a French drain which redirects water away from wet areas.
• Determine the drainage route by selecting a lower area or an appropriate outlet where the water can be safely discharged.
• Ensure that the planned drainage path doesn’t cause flooding in adjacent properties or other areas of your yard.

 
Gather the Necessary Materials and Tools
 

• Perforated drainage pipe (sized according to your project needs)
• Gravel aggregate (typically clean crushed stone) for bedding the pipe and backfill
• Sand or landscaping fabric, if desired, to help filter debris
• Shovel, spade or trenching tool for digging the trenches
• Rake and tamper to level and compact the fill material
• Optional: Landscape edging or pipe sleeves for additional support and separation from soil

 
Prepare and Dig the Drainage Trench
 

• Mark the planned trench path using string or spray paint to ensure a straight and even line.
• Dig a trench along the marked line; the depth should allow for sufficient slope—a general rule of thumb is a drop of approximately 1 inch per 10 feet to promote water flow.
• The width of the trench should be wide enough to accommodate the perforated pipe and a layer of gravel on either side (generally about 6 to 8 inches wide, depending on pipe size).
• Remove any large roots or debris that might impede installation.

 
Install the Drainage System
 

• Lay a layer of gravel at the bottom of the trench (around 2 to 3 inches) to create a stable base for the pipe.
• If desired, line the trench with landscape fabric to prevent soil from clogging the gravel and perforations.
• Place the perforated drainage pipe in the trench, ensuring the perforated side faces downward so that water can enter the pipe from the bottom.
• Test the slope by running water through the pipe; adjust the placement if necessary to ensure proper drainage and flow towards the outlet.
• Cover the pipe with additional gravel until the trench is nearly filled, leaving room at the top for a thin soil or sand layer if needed.

 
Backfill and Restore the Lawn
 

• Add a layer of topsoil or sand over the gravel to facilitate a smooth transition with the existing lawn surface.
• Lightly compact the backfill to avoid settling, ensuring that the drainage system remains effective.
• Reseed or patch the newly filled areas as needed to restore the lawn’s visual appeal.

 
Test the Drainage and Monitor Lawn Health
 

• After installation, simulate rainy conditions by pouring water over the area to observe the drainage system’s performance.
• Confirm that water is diverted efficiently away from the soggy sections and flows freely along the planned drainage route.
• Monitor the lawn following heavy rain; if water still pools, re-assess the slope and trench integrity, and consider minor adjustments or maintenance as needed.

 

Experience with various soil conditions in regions such as St. Louis and Nashville highlights the importance of proper drainage planning in maintaining a healthy lawn.