How I Fixed Our Backyard Swamp (With Help From a Local Guide)

Last spring, my Marlboro Township backyard turned into a mini Everglades after every rainstorm. My kids’ soccer ball floated more than it rolled, and our patio became an accidental wading pool. Desperate for solutions, I stumbled on Baur Lawns’ guide to drainage in Monmouth County—and it was a game-changer.

The Problem:

Turns out, our yard’s slope was sending water straight toward the house (hello, basement dampness). The guide explained how French drains and grading could redirect water naturally—no pumps or ugly trenches required.

Why It Helped:

• Local specifics: They addressed our clay-heavy soil, common in Marlboro.

• DIY vs. pro tips: I learned when to call experts (spoiler: for grading, always).

• Plant solutions: Even listed water-loving native plants for soggy spots.

My Fix:

We ended up hiring Baur for a hybrid solution: a French drain near the house and a rain garden for the low-lying area. Six months later? Bone-dry yard, even after Hurricane Ida’s leftovers rolled through.

Tagged: #Landscaping #DrainageSolutions #MarlboroNJ