How to Save the Water in Your Sink for Garden Use
Reducing water consumption is beneficial to the environment because energy and chemicals are required to store, purify and pump water. It also saves you money when your water is metered and reduces the risk of water shortages in dry areas. One effective way to cut household water consumption is to use gray water in your garden. Gray water isn't exactly dirty, but it has already been used for something else, such as washing dishes, clothes or yourself. The easiest place to start saving gray water is the kitchen sink, as you do not require any special equipment. Further, dishwashing liquid is useful for pest control in some instances. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Purchase a square or circular dishpan to fit your sink.
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Transfer the used water to your bucket after washing dishing or cleaning the kitchen. If you have a lot of work to do in the kitchen, you can tip several bowlfuls of water into the bucket and use the water at the end of the day. Don't store gray water for longer than a day. Storing the water for longer than this allows bacteria to multiply.
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Tip the water from the bucket into a plastic jug or a watering can and use as required in your garden. This water is safe for use on flowers, lawns and trees, including fruit trees. Water at the base of the plant, not on the leaves, unless you are trying to control aphids and the water is relatively clean. Do not use gray water on vegetables.
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Tips & Warnings
Try using dishwashing water on aphid infestations, for example on rose bushes. Dishwashing liquid and water is mildly toxic to aphids but breaks down harmlessly afterward.
If you are use strong cleaning chemicals such as oven cleaner or bleach, use the rinsing water to flush your toilet instead of in your garden. Dishwashing liquid and a gentle, ecofriendly cleaning spray shouldn't cause any problems.
References
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