Water sources
The water supply network for most of us is the primary source of water supply. However, this is not always the best source.
Firstly, in periods, when there is the greatest need for water in the garden, that is, during a drought, local authorities often make an appeal for savings. Such calls should be taken seriously. Secondly, mains water is very expensive, and third, is delivered under pressure, which may be too large for automatic sprinkler systems. This necessitates the installation of an additional rainfall tank. The pressure often fluctuates greatly. If it gets too low in our neighborhood, Water the plants in the early morning, before the neighbors get up from their beds and head to the bathrooms and kitchens. Large gardens generally require separate plumbing, especially if there are large reservoirs in them. If we are considering installing automatic sprinklers, let's check first, what is the performance of the network. It may turn out, that we will have to modernize it sooner.
Mains water causes several problems. Although it is clean and safe, however, its temperature is usually very low. Besides, it contains a lot of chlorine. For watering hardened ground-grown plants, this probably won't be a problem. But already watering sensitive plants with such water, which we grow in a greenhouse, can be a real thermal shock. So before we start watering, we need to warm the water. If we have enough free space in the greenhouse, we can set up a tank filled with water from the network. The water left in the tank will be purged of chlorine and warmed up. Moreover, we can dissolve liquid fertilizers in it.
Garden hoses and taps
In the garden, it is difficult to do without a well-situated tap. If the garden is large, one may not be enough for us. When buying a garden hose, let's remember, that it is worth spending more on a good quality product. Ib better do not break down so easily and are generally more durable. When we don't use the hose, let's roll it up and hang it on a special holder attached to the wall. If the plants are often watered, it is worth investing in manifolds and hose fittings of various types.
Frost
Water freezing, increases its volume, which can cause bursting pipes and hoses. Therefore, the installation supplying water to the building is at a depth exceeding the ground freezing level. If the garden installation is located shallower, we have to make it safe for the winter, draining the water from the pipes. We do the same with garden hoses, which are best moved to a shed during the winter. And when we accidentally leave a hose filled with water in the cold, let's not move it until the time, until the water melts by itself. Handling a frozen hose may cause it to burst.
Wells, ponds and ditches
If we have the opportunity, water from the water supply system can be refilled with water from the pond, wells, a ditch or a natural watercourse. Such water is usually warmer and chlorine-free. However, it can be muddy and contain debris. From a properly deep own well, we can draw cool, clean water.
In shallow wells, fed by groundwater, the water is often dirty. Such water, anyway, before we use it to water sensitive or greenhouse plants, we let you stand and warm up in a specially designed tank. The water from ponds and ditches is usually warmer, but more muddy. May contain impurities and bacteria, therefore it should be used very carefully. Even the simplest water pump allows us to draw water from the above-mentioned sources.
