«PLANT SELECTION STRATEGIES FOR RAIN GARDENS IN REGIONS WITH ARID CLIMATE»

Abstract

Amid the growing climate crisis and increasing frequency of droughts, the issue of effective urban greening is becoming especially urgent. Rain gardens offer a promising solution for sustainable stormwater management and environmentally friendly landscaping, particularly in arid regions. This paper focuses on the criteria for selecting resilient plant species for rain gardens under conditions of limited water availability. It examines the climatic and soil factors affecting plant viability, as well as the role of phytoremediating species in purifying surface runoff. Special attention is given to plants capable of withstanding both temporary flooding and prolonged drought—an essential feature for their application in rain gardens. The study provides recommendations for assembling a plant palette based on ecological adaptability, pollutant accumulation capacity, and support of biodiversity. The findings may serve as a practical foundation for designing sustainable landscapes in arid and semi-arid environments.

The aim of this study is to explore the criteria for selecting drought-resistant plants suitable for rain gardens in arid climates and to analyze existing plant species that meet these requirements. Key considerations in plant selection include not only drought tolerance but also adaptability to local ecosystems.