A rain barrel is an incredibly useful addition to a backyard, especially if you're looking to be more sustainable. It means you don't have to rely on tap water to keep your garden hydrated – which is better for your plants and your wallet. And, if a hosepipe ban comes into play during the height of summer, you'll be prepared.
The idea behind a rain barrel is simple. You connect a large vessel to the downpipe on the guttering of a building – be it a shed, a greenhouse, or your home – and the rainwater flows in, filling it up. But when harvesting rainwater in this way, some problems can arise, from insect intrusion and undesirable odors to weak pressure when attaching a hose.
