What Is A Cistern And How To Use It To Water Your Garden

If you're looking for an effective, sustainable way to reduce your water footprint while maintaining your garden, look no further than a cistern. Cisterns are large water storage tanks similar to rain barrels. Like rain barrels, they are designed to collect rainwater from your rooftop and store it for later use. Unlike a standard rain barrel, however, cisterns have a much larger capacity for water storage. Depending on the size you decide to install, you can store hundreds to thousands of gallons of water. This makes it easier for homeowners living in extra dry seasons to access natural water for their garden any time of year. 

This water storage system is fairly easy to use once it's set up. You can install a cistern above ground or below ground and collect water via your home's downspout or by setting up a roof-catchment system. When choosing a cistern for your garden, be sure to choose materials that are safe to use with your food supply. Ensuring a safely sealed cistern with proper drainage can also help mitigate risks like soil and water contamination.

The simplest way to access collected rainwater from your cistern is by connecting a hose or spigot to the cistern and watering plants directly from the source. You can also use the water from your cistern to set up drip irrigation systems. This watering technique not only helps save you money but is excellent for healthy plant growth. For more extensive gardens, consider adding a pump to increase water pressure and use sprinklers to cover a larger area. You could even integrate an automated irrigation system from your cistern water. 

This provides an accessible, hands-free way to maintain your garden's needs. Beyond watering your plants, you can use cistern rainwater to wash your garden tools, clean outdoor surfaces, or create a DIY water feature that will attract birds and other critters. However, it's essential to perform regular maintenance on your cistern to ensure safe and efficient water use for your garden. Be sure to clean and inspect the system often, clearing any debris from downspouts when possible. With proper cleaning and care, you can use rainwater runoff from your cistern for any gardening needs year-round.