Care Tips
Why Rainwater Is the Best Water for Plants—and How to Collect It
Learn why rainwater is better for plants than tap water, and easy ways to collect and store rainwater safely.
8/26/2025
1 min read
By Petalum
#rainwater for plants#collecting rainwater#best water for houseplants#watering plants naturally
Why Rainwater Is the Best Water for Plants—and How to Collect It
Did you know that rainwater is the healthiest water source for your plants? Unlike tap water, it’s free of chemicals and packed with nutrients.
Why Rainwater Is Better
- No chlorine or fluoride – common in tap water and harmful to some plants.
- Naturally soft water – prevents mineral buildup in soil.
- Rich in nitrogen – rainwater carries trace nutrients that promote growth.
How to Collect Rainwater
- Rain barrels: Attach to your gutter system for easy collection.
- Buckets & containers: Place outside during rainfall.
- Balcony collection: Use small containers for apartment living.
Storing Rainwater Safely
- Keep containers covered to prevent mosquitoes.
- Store in a cool, shaded area.
- Use within a few weeks to avoid stagnation.
Pro Tip
If you don’t have access to rainwater, leave tap water out overnight to let chlorine evaporate before watering.
🌧️ With Petalum, you can log when rain is forecast and get reminders to adjust your watering schedule.