Rain Barrel?

ilovebijou

I'm looking at getting a rain barrel for watering our annuals this year but wondering if it's worth it since I don't have a large garden and will only have about 6-7 large pots? Do you use one? If yes, do you like it? Where is the best place to purchase one?

Thanks!

JosiePosy

I love mine. I got it last year pretty cheap through a program with Recycling Assn of MN.

I also used it last year when it was really super dry and the trees needed watering. Trees tend to show the effects of drought years later by my understanding, so I liked having the ability to give them a drink without using city water. Then I emptied it and stored it for winter.

I think they're worth it. 

mrsdawnmarie

JosiePosy:

I love mine. I got it last year pretty cheap through a program with Recycling Assn of MN.

I also used it last year when it was really super dry and the trees needed watering. Trees tend to show the effects of drought years later by my understanding, so I liked having the ability to give them a drink without using city water. Then I emptied it and stored it for winter.

I think they're worth it. 

This, minus the tree thing. We don't have any trees on our lot.

BeccaMarie

Before you buy one, check with your local watershed district.  Sometimes they have cost share programs where they will help pay for part of your purchase.

jennyk213

We have one for trees and the flower gardens.  We had to supplement with city water last year so we're adding a second one this year. 

Check the Mississippi Market class schedule.  They have a rain barrel class for $35 ($30 for members) and you get a rain barrel. 

anitalynn

We've got 5 of the brown barrels from RAM. We love them - and it seems that you can really empty them pretty fast, so you don't need a huge amount of space to water to get a benefit. Plus, they fill up incredibly fast, so it doesn't take much rain before it's full again. 

hkiesling

We got ours last year at Menards, and I'm really happy with it.  We collected enough water from it that I was able to water my garden (fairly small - 12 tomato plants and two rows of onions and peppers) all summer with it.  I really like using fresh water for watering plants that produce food.  Just a few less chemicals.  I also noticed that my other plants seemed to do a little better last year, too.  I've heard some people complain that city water isn't the best for plants.