07/15/2024
Rain barrels are an environmentally-friendly and cost-effective way to water your flower and vegetable gardens! Do you know how big of a barrel you'd need if we were in a dought?
For vegetables in the summer, it's recommended to apply ~1 inch of water over the surface area of the garden bed per week. That is equivalent to 0.623 gallons per sq ft.
For example, a 32 sq ft bed requires 20 gallons of water per week.
(32 sq ft x 0.623 gallons per sq ft = 20 gallons per week).
A large garden could need as much as 200 gallons of water per week, so be prepared with a large rain barrel for those hot, dry summer days.
For more math, visit:https://ucanr.edu/sites/scmg/files/185639.pdf
🌧️ Benefits of Collecting Rainwater:
• Reduces local flooding.
• Eases stress on stormwater systems.
• Keeps pollutants out of rivers and streams.
• Provides clean water for lawns, gardens, washing cars, and more.
💧 Did You Know? A quarter-inch of rain on an average home yields over 200 gallons of water! Using rain barrels is a simple and low-cost way to reduce stormwater runoff from your property.
🛢️ What is a Rain Barrel? Rain barrels are large containers that capture stormwater from your roof. Modern rain barrels are sealed, child-safe, insect-resistant, and can even be decorated. Divert water from your downspout to fill your rain barrel, and access the water easily later.
🌸 Why Use Rain Barrels?
• Around 40% of household water used in summer is for lawns and gardens.
• Rainwater is free of chlorine, lime, and calcium, making it perfect for plants.
• Save on your water bill while helping the environment.
