Drainage Problem

Question

We have had a lot of issues with standing water in the front at the house where the bushes and flowers were. We had gutters installed hoping that would solve the problem. We previously noticed when redoing the front that there is a lot of clay. We added black cow before planting. Well we still have the issue and it ruined all we had planted. So we were at square one. We added more black cow, re planted, and we are still having the same issue of water standing in areas around some of what was planted, and it’s just not draining. Some areas are puddles. So we need to raise the grade? How? What can we do to fix this because we are wanting to sell the home but when we redo this again we want it to be the last time. Thank You in advance.

Answer 1

Tilling, and amending will be the best option. Unfortunately, cow manure compost on its own will be too thick, leaving you with the same problem. Adding earthworms will help, drastically, as well. Here are some articles to help you:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/improving-garden-soil.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/macro-and-micro-elements.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/making-sure-soil-drains-well.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/yard-drainage-problems.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/how-to-improve-clay-soil.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic/how-to-easily-improve-your-clay-soil.htm