Setting up rain barrels can sound like a daunting task. Actually, it can be, or you can just find an easier way like I did. Barrels from a local bottling company and a few chunks of old garden hose is all I used. Once you get the siphon going it will remain true as long as the ends of the hose are always submerged. The water will flow either way just from the effects of atmospheric pressure.
Last year I had put fittings near the bottom of each barrel and ran hose that way from one to the next. The problem was that the barrels are round, so it is difficult to get the flat fittings to stay water tight. It is possible with a little extra silicone. I found that the barrel flexed too much when in the hot sun all day.
This year as you see, I decided to use the natural siphon method. I used a garden hose that I found on the side of the road and cut that into the lengths I needed. I used an old sheet as a filter to keep debris from the gutter out of the system so it does not clog the hoses.
Rainwater is much better for your plants than tap water. If you live in an area where you use well water, that is good for plants too. I just try to avoid treated tap water as it is missing important plant nutrients and has chemicals added to it before it reached your faucet. Try to use natural water whenever possible.
I hope this helps you figure out a way to rig up a system of your own to assist with healthier and more plentiful plants while conserving water at the same time. Please feel free to ask any questions in the comment area and I will do my best to help you out.
Remember, Mother Earth smiles when you garden!
