Why Proper Drainage Matters in Charleston Landscapes

Protect Your Yard from Summer Rainfall, Plant Diseases, and Foundation Damage

Charleston has already experienced frequent rainfall this summer, a familiar pattern during our hot, humid months.
Even on clear, sunny mornings, intense afternoon storms can dump inches of rain-leaving many yards waterlogged
and vulnerable.

At The Tree Clinic, we know that without proper drainage, the best-designed landscapes in Charleston can suffer from
root rot, erosion, and serious plant disease. That’s why we install comprehensive, integrated drainage systems to
keep properties resilient and beautiful all year long.

Signs of Poor Drainage in Your Landscape

• Standing water more than 24-48 hours after rain
• Yellowing or wilting plants despite recent rainfall
• Mushy turf, soft garden beds, and erosion
• Mildew or algae growth on hardscape surfaces
• Exposed roots and washed-out mulch

Plant Diseases That Thrive in Poorly Drained Soil

1. Root Rot (Phytophthora, Pythium)
   Symptoms: Wilting despite wet soil, stunted growth, dark/mushy roots.
2. Leaf Spot and Blight (Alternaria, Cercospora)
   Symptoms: Brown/black spots on leaves, premature defoliation.
3. Southern Stem Canker and Collar Rot
   Symptoms: Bark decay at trunk base, girdling, slow dieback.
4. Fungal Turf Diseases (Brown Patch, Pythium Blight)
   Symptoms: Circular patches in lawn, gray webbing, sunken turf spots.

Our Drainage Solutions for Charleston Yards

1. Soil Amendment – Improve clay-heavy soils with compost and biochar.
2. Drainage Tile Systems – Collect and redirect water below the surface.
3. Gutter Tie-Ins – Connect roof drainage to subsurface systems.
4. French Drains & Dry Wells – Eliminate pooling in low areas.
5. Regrading and Swales – Shape land to direct runoff safely.
6. Permeable Pavers – Use open-joint or gravel patios to reduce runoff.
7. Rain Gardens – Install moisture-loving native plants in wet zones.

Don’t Wait Until Plants Start Dying

The combination of frequent summer rain and Charleston’s naturally heavy soils makes it critical to address drainage
early. Many plant problems we see aren’t from pests or lack of care-they’re the result of chronic overwatering caused
by poor drainage.

Schedule a Drainage Assessment with The Tree Clinic

Get ahead of Charleston’s wet season with a system designed to protect your plants, your property, and your
investment.