Vegetated Swale Planting Specifications

Vegetated Street Swale. Barlow Ridge Subdivision along Dubarko Rd.

The minimum plant material quantities per 100 square feet of facility area are:

  • 1 evergreen or deciduous tree to be planted around the perimeter of the swale
  • 4 large shrubs
  • 6 shrubs or large grass-like plants
  • Ground covers at 12 inches on center, or seed, or sod
  • A minimum of 4 different species of trees and shrubs must be used.  Topsoil shall be added to the top 12 inches of the swale, or the soil shall be amended with organic material to support plant growth.
  • A planting detail for a typical 20 foot long swale with a 2 foot wide bottom is attached (click here).

Click here for a list of recommended native plants.  Plants should be chosen based on amount of sunlight the swale will receive, as well as the plant’s ability to withstand both drought and temporary flooding.  Other plants may be chosen based on preference.

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