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D.I.Y Rainbarrel: Last year, I noticed that my downspout was aiming right at the foundation of my house, and a big mossy damp spot had formed. Before this turned into a cracked foundation, I rigged up a rainbarrel to catch it all. I bought a big rubbermaid garbage pail at Canadian Tire on sale for about 8 dollars. It has a sturdy lid that snaps on and off. Then I bought a brass spout for 12 bucks at Lee Valley Tools, which comes with a rubber gasket. I took my plumber's torch and, holding the spout with tongs, heated up the base of the spout (take the gasket off first) until it was hot enough that I could melt it into the side of the barrel, near the bottom, thereby creating a good seal. I fastened the gasket and was done. Then, I took the top off the pail and cut a hole in it exactly the same size and shape of my downspout. I wedged the pail below the downspout, put the lid on the right spot, and sealed it. It works perfectly. And, since it can overflow at times, I attached an old hose to the base of it, leading excess water downhill to an unused part of the yard. If you want to fit a watering can under the spout, just put the pail slightly higher, on a base of wood or something.
Reuse Cooking Water: Another great way to conserve water is to water your plants with left-over cooking water. Rather than pouring cooking water down the drain, pour water used to boil or steam veggies onto your potted plants once it has cooled off to room temperature. Don't try to pour it on while it is hot! Pop Bottle Irrigation: Instead of purchasing costly aqua spikes, make your own drip irrigation system. It takes minutes and costs nothing. Gradual watering systems are not only a great time saver but they will work wonders during midsummer drought. For full instructions click here. Aquarium Water: Aquarium owners know that every few weeks a small percentage of the water must be drained and replaced with fresh water. You can use the discarded water to water your plants. This is not only a good conservation method, but a good fertilizer too! 'Recycled' Water: If you are a patio gardener, consider hauling `grey water’ instead of tap water from your apartment or house outside to your plants. Mild, diluted dishsoap won’t harm your plants. Water from the bathtub is even better. Conserve!
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