With drought conditions affecting parts of the UK, hotter summers and increasingly unpredictable rainfall are making it more important than ever to capture every drop – especially with heavy downpours forecast this week. Collecting rainwater is an easy way to reduce water waste, cut your reliance on the mains supply and keep your garden thriving during dry spells.
‘In the UK, it is perfectly legal to collect rainwater – in fact, collecting rainwater is often encouraged, and can help homeowners tend to their gardens in the event of summer hosepipe bans,’ says James Higgins, garden specialist at Grass247. ‘With unpredictable rainfall becoming common, homeowners need to think ahead when it comes to water management, especially when using it in the garden.’
Below, we share three simple and affordable ways to start collecting rainwater at home.
1. Use a rain butt
One of the easiest and most effective ways to collect rainwater is with a rain butt, also known as a rain barrel. While you can buy purpose-built versions, you don't have to spend much money to get started. Old bins, large plastic tubs, or even oversized plant pots with drainage holes sealed can all be repurposed into simple water storage containers.
‘Simply place containers where there’s no coverage from foliage for rainwater collection,’ says James. ‘Alternatively, place containers underneath the roof gutter drainage.’ From here, the water can then be stored for later use.
If your container doesn't have a lid, cover it with a fine mesh to stop leaves, twigs and other debris contaminating the water, which could encourage disease in plants.
2. Install a rain chain
Not only are rain chains an attractive garden feature, but they also offer a practical way to direct rainwater into a collection container. Some rain chains even have cups for collecting water directly.
‘Rain chains can also help slow water flow, reducing soil displacement and preventing water pooling in unwanted areas,’ explains James.
This can be especially useful for protecting lawns, as excessive standing water can damage grass health and, over time, lead to long-lasting problems if drainage isn't managed properly.
3. Add a pond or bird bath
If you have enough space, a pond or even a simple bird bath can help your garden make better use of rainfall.
‘They can act as a water collector by capturing rainwater, managing runoff from rooftops or paved areas, and helping replenish groundwater through seepage,’ James tells us.
As an added bonus, ponds and bird baths also provide an important water source for birds, insects and other wildlife, helping to create a healthier, more biodiverse garden.
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