5 Creative Ways to Use Water Tanks in Your Garden This Summer

1. Create an Efficient Drip Irrigation System

A drip irrigation system is an effective way to keep plants hydrated, especially during dry spells, as it allows for targeted watering at the base of each plant. By connecting a drip irrigation system to your water tank, you can slowly release water directly to plant roots, minimising evaporation and runoff. This method is especially useful for larger gardens where hand-watering would otherwise be too time-consuming and wasteful.

To set this up, connect a small pump to your water tank that feeds into a system of drip lines laid throughout the garden. The pump can be set to run on a timer, allowing you to control exactly how much water each section of the garden receives. Using tank water for drip irrigation not only saves on water costs but also provides a reliable solution for keeping your plants healthy and hydrated throughout summer.

2. Create a DIY Rainwater Pond

Using some of your tank water to create a small pond or water feature can add a touch of tranquillity to your garden. A rainwater pond is a great way to recycle tank water, support local wildlife, and improve the aesthetics of your outdoor space. Many Tauranga and Hamilton residents use ponds to attract native birds, frogs, and insects, enhancing biodiversity in their backyards.

To create a rainwater pond, choose an area of your garden that receives partial shade to minimise water evaporation. Dig a shallow basin and line it with pond liner or waterproof material, then fill it with water from your tank. You can add rocks, aquatic plants, and small fish to create a self-sustaining ecosystem. Just be sure to keep an eye on water levels and refill the pond as needed, especially during hotter months.

3. Brew Your Own Compost Tea for Nutrient-Rich Watering

Compost tea is a nutrient-dense liquid created by steeping compost in water, which provides plants with essential nutrients that support growth and resilience. To make compost tea, fill a container with tank water and add a bag of compost, allowing it to steep for several days. This creates a concentrated liquid fertiliser that can be diluted and used to water plants.

Using tank water for compost tea is not only economical but also helps maintain a chemical-free garden. Compost tea can be particularly useful during summer as it nourishes plants stressed by heat, promoting stronger roots and better resistance to drought conditions.

4. Support Vertical Gardens or Living Walls

If you’re short on garden space, vertical gardens or living walls are a stylish and sustainable way to grow plants in a small area. Vertical gardens can be mounted along fences or walls and can include herbs, succulents, flowers, and even small vegetables. By connecting a small irrigation system from your water tank to your vertical garden, you can keep plants hydrated without the hassle of manual watering.

This setup is especially beneficial for urban Auckland residents who may have limited outdoor space but still want to enjoy the benefits of home-grown produce and greenery. A vertical garden is also an attractive feature that can transform plain walls into vibrant, lush areas.

5. Build a DIY Rain Garden

A rain garden is a landscaped area planted with native, water-tolerant plants that can absorb rainwater runoff. Rain gardens help filter water and prevent soil erosion while creating an attractive, eco-friendly feature in your garden. By placing your rain garden near a downspout connected to your water tank, you can direct overflow water into the garden, where it can soak into the ground naturally.

This solution is ideal for Auckland and Tauranga residents who want to manage water flow in their yards, reduce puddling, and support local plants. Rain gardens also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, adding life and colour to your garden.