GREY WATER is the recycling of bath, shower, hand basin and laundry water, which can then be used to irrigate your garden.
By reusing bath and laundry water, we can keep their gardens looking healthy - even in times of drought. Plus, grey water also contains nutrients derived from the residues and soaps in the water, which feed and nourish the soil to produce lush plants.
Do not, however, use water waste from the kitchen sink as this contains fat content that will damage your garden.
Grey Water Systems
With any grey water system, it is important that you use “garden friendly” products and detergents that do not contain any salts, boron or bleach. If you intend on using the water to feed a vegetable garden, it is important that the system has a filter.
Grey Water Tolerant Plants
In general, tough drought-tolerant plants will do best with grey water irrigation watering.
Generally, greywater is alkaline, so avoid using it on plants like hibiscus, ferns, ...
Trees that flourish from grey water include banana, drumstick, ...
To help these plants thrive, occasionally flush the plants with a bit of fresh tap water to remove the residue from the greywater.
Grey Water Reuse Guidelines
We should be aware of the hygiene factors using grey water for irrigating garden. Because grey water is not fresh, we should apply the following to avoid the growth of bacteria and unpleasant odours:
• Use the grey water within 24 hours. Storing the water any longer will result in a bad odour.
• Minimise contact with grey water.
• Use non-toxic cleaning agents and products where possible.
• Do not allow your grey water to pool on the surface of the soil. Standing water will provide a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
• Do not use water from the toilet.
• Do not use laundry water if chemical detergent are used.
• Do not allow children or pets to drink or play in grey water.
• Do not let grey water run into the ponds
• Do not use grey water if any person has an infectious illness.
