DIY water butt: 10 rainwater harvesting ideas for small-space gardeners

In urban gardening, water conservation is paramount. Harvesting rainwater saves money, conserves water (especially during those increasingly hot British summers when housepipe bans or water usage limits are a looming threat), can be better for your plants (rainwater is softer than tap water in many areas), and is good practice in terms of conservation.

But water butts or rainwater harvesting kits can be bulky and expensive - two things every urban gardener hates to hear. To help you conserve water in your small-space garden, we've come up with 10 creative DIY ideas.

How to make your own water butts

1. Upcycled Shower Caddy Micro System

Repurpose shower caddies into a micro water harvesting system for your window garden. Hang the caddies on your window grills or balcony railing, allowing them to collect rainwater and distribute it directly to your potted herbs. It's a quirky and space-efficient way to repurpose everyday items for a greener purpose..

2. Gutter to Watering Can System

Attach a section of guttering to your balcony railing, positioning it at a slight angle toward a large watering can or smaller containers. When it rains, water will flow seamlessly into your makeshift gutter, ready to be collected for future watering sessions.

3. Hanging Basket Water Butt

Repurpose a hanging basket by lining the bottom with a plastic bag and securing it in place. Let the rainwater accumulate for a space-saving and overhead greenery solution in your vertical garden.

4. Collapsible Water Storage Bags

Create collapsible pockets along a wall using water-resistant fabric or materials. When it rains, these pockets expand to catch and store water. During dry spells, collapse them to save space. This flexible and space-saving solution is perfect for gardeners with limited room for permanent installations..

5. Compact Window Box Gutter

Attach a narrow gutter directly beneath your window box or ledge. When it rains, the gutter collects water runoff, ensuring that every drop is directed to your plants below. This uncomplicated setup is perfect for small spaces and ensures efficient water utilization.

6. Umbrella Funnel Setup

Transform a retired umbrella into a rainwater funnel by securing it upside down, directing water toward your waiting collection vessel. This quirky yet practical idea turns an old item into a functional piece of your water conservation strategy.

7. Bottle Drip System

Repurpose plastic bottles as simple drip irrigation for your window ledge plants. Cut the bottom off a plastic bottle, fill it with rainwater, and invert it into the soil. As the soil dries, the bottle releases water slowly, providing a continuous source of hydration for your plants.

8. Tray and Funnel Setup

Place a shallow tray on your window ledge to collect rainwater. Position a funnel at the edge of the tray to guide the water directly to the base of your plants. This uncomplicated approach maximizes water capture for your small-scale window garden.

9. Rainwater-Soaked Sponge System

nsert small sponges into your potted plants on the window ledge. When it rains, the sponges absorb water and gradually release it to the surrounding soil, acting as a natural water reservoir. This low-tech solution ensures minimal water wastage.

10. Hydroponic Tower Reservoir

For urban gardeners experimenting with hydroponics, repurpose a vertical tower system into a water butt. Use the reservoir at the base to collect rainwater, providing a sustainable water source for your hydroponic setup.