French drains could work in central Florida if given the chance

The soils in most areas of Central Florida are very sandy, which does not allow for much ponding due to very quick percolation to the aquifer. This is beneficial to avoid flooding, but it is bad for lawns and shrubs, and can lead to erosion. Sandy soil is quick to erode, and it is not uncommon to see washouts around the yard when heavy flooding rains occur.

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In areas beyond Central Florida where the soils are not as sandy, many homeowners use French drainage systems to move water out of ponding areas – which also serves as a method for dispersing the water to needed areas of the lawn. French drainage systems are not as popular in the Central Florida, which is probably a mistake due to the erosion factor and the damage rushing water off a home creates to the home and the surrounding flower beds, shrubs and ornamentals.