Add a Rain Chain to Your Garden

by Jan Kennemer 03/14/2021

Image by Kaitong Yepoon from Shutterstock

Rain in its due time is every gardener's dream. Saving and reusing rainwater is a great way to save resources for the garden. One way to collect rainwater and store it for future use is to install a rain chain.

A decorative rain chain can be used in place of a downspout to collect water from the roof. It can be made from a typical chain or series of objects that lead from the roofline into a water storage container. As the rain falls, the chain guides water into the storage container so that it does not immediately soak into the ground. The water can then be used around the garden when the weather is fair.

Rain chain: a decorative detail

The rain chain is not just a functional addition to your garden, it can be built from decorative elements that add detail to your outdoor space.

Chains can be built from a single metal chain or several containers that are strung together. Some rain chains are comprised of metal elements, small watering cans, china pieces or bells. For something more unique, you may consider a chain that is built from recycled glass bottles. Constructing rain chains using shapes that hold water, may also attract more birds into your garden.

Rain chains attach to the gutters of your home to collect water during rainfall. A rain chain is smaller than a downpipe so it cannot handle the same volume of water. If you experience heavy rain in your area, keep downspouts in place and use a rain chain as a decorative addition to your space.

About the Author

Jan Kennemer

Jan will show you how you can live close to Washington, DC – by public transit and/or highway – and still enjoy all the many amenities and friendliness of a quiet community. Jan is a life-long resident of Arlington, Va. So, she is very familiar with northern Virginia …Arlington, Falls Church, Alexandria and close-in Fairfax. She knows where to find those little out-of the-way places where you will still get excellent value and a home that meets your needs. As a Realtor® for over 20 years, Jan has developed a customized system for marketing and selling properties which includes the latest technologies combined with tried and true practices. She has received special training in working with first time buyers, repeat buyers and seniors. She is a certified VHDA trainer and is certified as a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES©). Jan is also a certified e-Pro. She gets results you want – the best price in the shortest time. Jan is dedicated to helping clients satisfy their needs and wants while providing them with a strong investment for the future. She is readily available to provide explanations and information. She won’t push you into making an uncomfortable choice. Jan helps you to fully understand the transaction, so that you can always make an informed decision based on facts and figures.