Spring rains, sunshine, and blooms are on the horizon. Plan ahead for your property by ordering your native plants and rain barrels from the Hamilton County Soil and Water Conservation District. SWCD has all the tools you need to conserve water and support pollinators like bees and butterflies with beautiful native plants.
Native plant kits allow you to take the guesswork out of plant selection by providing a set of plants that will be perfect for your yard. Each native plant kit contains 50 native plant plugs for $135. There is a kit for all areas of your yard including pollinator, rain (for wetter areas), shade and prairie grass.
Rain barrels are also available for pre-order for $85. These re-purposed barrels capture rainwater from your downspout and roof and hold it for later use. Rain barrel water is great for watering plants and gardens or even washing the car. In peak summer months, a rain barrel can save around 1,300 gallons of free, naturally soft water for your use. Pre-pay for your barrel and choose between grey, black, and terra cotta 55-gallon rain barrels. Accessories like diverters systems for easily installation, wooden stands, and linking hoses are also available.
Carmel residents are eligible for a $50 to $75 rebate from the City Stormwater Program after installing a rain barrel. Information on this program is available at rainonmain.com/carmel-rain-barrel-subsidy.html.
Plant kit and rain barrel pre-orders can be placed online at hamiltonswcd.org. Orders for plants are due Thursday, March 28 and rain barrel pre-orders are due May 16. Rain barrels can be picked up on May 22 in Noblesville and plants the week of June 4. All proceeds support conservation projects and education in Hamilton County.
More information on native plants and rain barrels can be found at hamiltonswcd.org.
Questions regarding the sales or SWCD resources can be directed to at soil.water@hamiltoncounty.in.gov or (317) 773-2181.