All conscientious allotment owners collect rainwater. Collecting rainwater is a good idea for two reasons: 1. doing so is environmentally responsible because it conserves natural resources, and 2. rainwater is better for your plants' health and well-being because tap water contains potentially unhealthy chemicals such as magnesium and calcium. These chemicals neutralize acidic soil which many plants need in order to flourish.
Rainwater tends to be slightly acidic on the pH scale because as rain falls, it picks up a bit of carbon dioxide which, in turn, causes the rainwater to become weak carbonic acid. This carbonic acid is natural and is not harmful to plants. What is harmful to plants, however, is rainwater that has fallen through polluted air and becomes acid rain. All in all, though, rainwater is better than tap water for plants because it's free and contains relatively fewer chemicals.
The process for collecting rainwater is simple. You'll want to install one or more water butts (also known as water tanks) to collect the rainwater. A good idea would be to install two or even three butts to collect additional water that you'll need in the hot, dry months of the year. These additional tanks will also be useful if you find yourself experiencing a sudden hosepipe ban or restriction. Remember to keep the butts covered so they don't become breeding grounds for algae and/or mosquitoes.
To create an easy and effective drip system for watering your plants, hook up a drip irrigation system or a length of leaky hose to your water butt. Then bury it in and among your plants so they can directly receive adequate irrigation.
Some plants such as potted plants require more water than others. To provide for them adequately, try taking an upside-down carbonated drink bottle and poking a few holes in the lid. Then fill the bottle with water and stick it into the ground near the plants' roots. This strategy makes superior drip feeders for drought-sensitive plants.
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