We all know that rain barrels are effective for capturing rain water. Some people think they are unsightly. But just look at this! The rainbarrel is scarcely visible behind the butterfly bush blossoms. It waters the bush amply and provides sustenance for our endangered pollinators, the bees. If you want it hidden all
year round, plant an inkberry bush which is evergreen and has a dainty
white blossom in spring and clusters of black berries that remain on
the bush all winter providing desperately needed food for returning
Cedar Waxwings and Robins.
Here are some links to sources of barrels and information:
Arlington Echo Outdoor Education Center
Build your own individual rain garden! NCSU complete instructions
The Great American Rain Barrel Company has some great barrels and diverters and will ship directly to you.
A small business in Gaithersburg makes rainbarrels for you - Aqua Barrel
Visit Corinne Irwin's website for complete information and detailed information on Rain Gardens and other ways to make your yard River-friendly.
The Center for Watershed Protection (CWP) helps build rainbarrels/gardens with community associations, schools and homeowners. Visit CWP website for complete instructions and information.
Chesapeake Bay Foundation offers excellent infomation on Bay-Friendly landscaping.
Contact our office for questions, referrals or more information.
