Fill ‘Er Up This Summer!

Location: Midwest

As a gardener, I’m always looking for ways to save money and grow the most organic garden. I compost, I share seeds and plants with neighbors, I can my own produce . . . but every year I spend at least $300 watering my garden and lawn! That’s why I’m collecting rainwater this summer.

For centuries, people have collected runoff – our old house still has the “cistern room” in our basement! Back then they used this water for everything from bathing to drinking – that would be a little too much for me! But using the water that runs off my roof to water my flowers? Now that sounds like a good idea! Not only will I save money but I’ll keep the rainwater from eroding through my lawn as it eventually just ends up in the sewer. Plus this water is free of all the chemicals they add in before the tap water gets to my house. Best of all, it’s pretty easy to do!

Rain barrel designs range from very simple to decorative to downright complicated! Most depend on gravity to collect the water and disperse it throughout your garden. They usually are made out of a lidded twenty- or fifty-gallon plastic barrel that sits under your main downspout to collect the rainwater. Most come with an on-and-off handle so you can attach your hose to the barrel just like your outside spigot. Assembly is easy for any skill level and it makes a great project to do with the kids. The supplies usually run around $50 so you’ll easily recoup this upfront cost within the first month of use.

This water-saving practice has become so popular, you can find instructions for building your own rainwater barrel just about anywhere! I used wikiHow.com to get started. http://www.wikihow.com/Build-a-Rainwater-Collection-System. Or if you’d like a more hands-on approach, Many local utility companies and community education groups are now offering rain barrel classes – just look through your local paper. Most large garden supply stores or home improvement centers now offer pre-packaged, do-it-yourself kits at.

This is a such a fun project to do for your garden (and your wallet!). You’ll be able to give your veggies a clean, organic drink of water. You won’t be taking water from your city’s municipal system. You’ll be helping in eliminating erosion and runoff. And all it only takes is an empty barrel and a good downpour!