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Overview |
Watering right | Irrigation systems |
Rainwater + Grey water |
Rainwater + Grey water |
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Many gardeners are worried about the level of water they use on their garden, and are searching for solutions to reuse and recycle water. You may have thought about using a rain tank or grey water on your garden to save on water, but don't know where to start. Garden centres and nurseries have lots of great tips about using grey water and rain tanks.
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What is grey water? |
Grey water is the wasted water from our showers, baths, spas, laundry tubs and washing machines (It is not from kitchen or toilets). Using grey water on your garden can save about 400 litres of fresh water every day.
There are different systems available which either treat grey water or deliver it to your garden untreated. Remember that untreated grey water can contain high levels of nutrients and salt and in most cases must be applied by sub-surface irrigation. Talk to your local nursery or garden centre about the plants you have, and whether they're particularly intolerant to grey water. Using untreated grey water in your garden means you may need to cut back on the amount of fertiliser you use.
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Rainwater tanks
Rainwater tanks are a great way to save rain water for use during
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dry periods. You'll need a tank with a storage capacity of about 5000L but you should check with your local tank supplier about what is best in your local area.
You will need to use a filter if you're connecting your tank to an irrigation system, as algae and debris can get caught in the system can cause blockage.
Check out your local water authority for any rebates they might be offering for installing a rain tank or ask your local garden centre.
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| Grey Water and Rain Tanks: What do I need to look out for? |
- First things first: check out the guidelines for rainwater tanks and grey water use from your local council. These guidelines are often on council websites, or you could ask a nursery or garden centre in your area.
- Shop around - look for a system that suits your budget and lifestyle, and make sure that any grey water system you buy meets the standards for use required by the Health Department in your state or territory.
- In most cases, you'll need to get a licensed plumber to install the system for you. Your local tank and greywater system supplier will be able to help you find someone to do this.
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