Rain Barrels

Collecting water in a rain barrel to water your plants saves money and helps the environment. It's amazing how fast a rain barrel fills during the growing seasons. You can buy a rain barrel that's true to its name. These look exactly like a traditional wooden wine barrel. Pick one with a flat back allowing it to fit tight against a garden wall. These rain barrels come with brass spigots and you can link more than one if necessary.

Other rain barrel designs are available. They are usually made of resilient plastic and can tolerate extreme temperatures. They won't crack over time. You can find these with screen guards to keep insects from contaminating the water. Garden hose attachments offer more convenience. A rain barrel with a planter on the top makes a practical container into a pretty one. Look for a rain barrel to suit your yard, one that doesn't detract from your outdoor decor.