One of the biggest drains of a city's water supply can come from people using their water for gardening. Many people enjoy the look of beautiful lawns and lush gardens, however this is using precious water that is needed for bathing or cooking or drinking - and therefore they are adding to the water shortage.
Everyone loves a lush green garden but unfortunately the Australian climate is not exactly suited to this type of garden. We have plenty of sunshine but most of us are lacking water. Consequently most cities are facing water restrictions and limited to the days we can water. Unless you have drought tolerant plants then your garden will go thirsty. Here's one way to have your green garden without using more than your share.
Using rainwater tanks is the perfect way for you to create the garden of your dreams and keep it green all year round. To build a system that is suitable for your garden you need to calculate a) how much water you need and b) how much water you get. Local rainfall tables are available from the local weather website. Slimline tanks are great for small blocks because you put them out of the way and grow plants around them to hide them. Some tanks can even be used as wall panels or fencing. If you can't afford a big tank, use a modular tank so you can start with one and join on another one next year. Slimline tanks are typically round or elliptical, and can look a bit unsightly in your backyard however some new tanks are rectangular and flat so that fit together and look just like a normal wall or fence
Using rainwater for your gardens is also a great idea because you don't have to do anything to the water before you use it for your plants and vegetables. In fact, some research shows the water even healthier than watering them out of your own water supply, depending on where your local water comes from. Water from the tap is treated with chemicals to make sure there is no harmful bacteria, strange colours or smells. Pipes that deliver the mains water can be over 50 years old and fill of rust, dirt, tree roots and other nasty pollutants! Compare that to rainwater which falls directly from the sky.
To get the water from the tank to your garden there is a few options. This can be as simple as watering can or hose for small blocks, or with an integrated set up with pumps and controllers which is better for larger gardens. If you are concerned with small particles getting caught in the sprinklers or you also intend on using the water in your home then you might consider a first- flush filter or an inline filter to take out any dirt or sediment. Spiders, Mosquitoes, frogs and other creepy crawlies love water tanks so make sure all openings are covered with mosquito wire.
Rainwater tanks will make big difference to your garden and water use and will cost you a lot less than you think. Rain is free so we might as well use it!
