Rainwater provides moisture that is free of salts that can damage plant roots.
Rainwater collection is becoming a popular way to introduce sustainable gardening methods into home landscapes. Rainwater is beneficial for plants because it is free of salts and minerals that impair root growth. It saves money on water bills, reduces contamination of surface water with pesticides and reduces demand on municipal water supplies. Rainwater collection requires capture, diversion and optional storage of rainwater. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Rain Barrel
1. Locate a rain barrel that has not been used for any toxic substance, also known as a food-grade barrel.
2. Drill a hole 4 inches from the bottom of the barrel and screw in a plastic spigot.
3. Cut a rectangular hole in the top the same size as your gutter downspouts.
4. Attach a small piece of wire mesh over the rectangular opening to keep debris out of the barrel.
5. Cut downspout to the correct height to drain into barrel. Position barrel under spout.
6. Connect a hose to the spigot to water flower and vegetables beds further away from the rain barrel.
Trenches
7. Dig a 2- to 4-inch deep trench around landscape or garden beds to collect rainwater.
8. Dig smaller trenches to carry the water to individual plant groups.
9. Build a small berm, or lip, constructed of soil on the outside edge of the trench to hold the water inside the trench so it can slowly filter into the garden soil.
Cistern
10. Dig a large rectangular pit in the ground. The size will depend on how much water you wish to store.
11. Line the pit with concrete, fiberglass, cement blocks or other waterproof material.
12. Add a filtering component like screening over access openings that will keep out debris and small animals.
13. Cover the cistern to keep debris out of the water. Wood, canvas, metal or plastic are good coverings.
Tags: keep debris, free salts, rain barrel, Rainwater collection