Harvest rainwater for your indoor plants

As we enter into the peak of the wet season, the showers will continue to bless us frequently. If you haven’t already started, rainwater harvesting is a viable option as the benefits are plentiful.

Rainwater harvesting is collecting the run-off from a structure (usually an open pipe) or other impervious surface in order to store it for later use. Traditionally, this involves harvesting the rain from a roof. The rain will collect in gutters that channel the water into downspouts and then into some sort of storage vessel. Rainwater collection systems can be as simple as collecting rain in a rain barrel or bucket or as elaborate as harvesting rainwater into large tanks to supply your entire household demand.

Rainwater harvesting was practised by our elders, and it is a concept that was used especially in rural areas. Today, rainwater harvesting is becoming a viable alternative for supplying our households and businesses with water.

The benefits of rainwater harvesting are vast. First of all, rainwater is free, and you have control of how much you choose to collect. It promotes water conservation and self-sufficiency and is now deemed an environmentally responsible practice.

You can use inexpensive materials to create your rainwater harvesting system and it is easy to maintain. If you live in an area where there are water shortages, you can utilise rainwater as a backup and for emergencies.

The most popular benefit is the use of rainwater in our gardens. Plants watered regularly with rainwater are lush and greener because of the nitrogen contained in rainwater.

Rainwater also contains more oxygen than tap water which helps plants grow full and lush. Carbon dioxide is also brought down to earth, through the naturally occurring carbon cycle, to the benefit of plants when it rains. Once carbon dioxide reaches the soil, it can help release important nutrients for the plants.

Rainwater is also the best option for your indoor plants. It is naturally soft, which mean it does not contain the calcium and magnesium found in tap water. This makes it easier for the plant to absorb essential nutrients.

Rainwater typically has a neutral or slightly acidic pH, which is suitable for many houseplants.

Rainwater is free of chlorine, chloramine, fluoride, and other chemicals commonly found in tap water, which can be harmful to sensitive plants (which include most houseplants). Rainwater is a literal gift from the sky to your houseplants!

Finally, after proper filtration, rainwater has numerous health benefits. It should be noted that rainwater is not safe to consume without intense filtration through disinfection and filtration.

Rainwater can help improve digestive processes, reduce bloating, joint pain, and inflammation. The natural minerals can help boost your immunity and support healthy skin.

With the upcoming rainy days ahead, I hope you consider rainwater harvesting and all its benefits!

Send questions to: rayannaboodram@hotmail.com