Greywater is pure gold

What is greywater?

It’s the water that goes down the drain when we shower, bath, brush our teeth, wash our hands and do the laundry. According to Rand Water’s Waterwise website, up to 50% of all household effluent water can be reused.

What’s taboo about greywater?

Bear in mind that very greasy dishwater can literally smother your plants and the soil. Water from the toilet (also called blackwater) and water in which dirty nappies have been washed are taboo.

Which plants like greywater?

Olive trees, rosemary, bougainvilleas, lavender and most other droughtresistant plants.

Which plants don’t like greywater?

Greywater is usually alkaline, so don’t use it to water acid-loving plants like azaleas, begonias, gardenias, fynbos or proteas. Don’t water seedlings with greywater, and be very careful when using it on your vegetable garden.

Can I improve the quality of my greywater?

Yes, by using eco-friendly and biodegradable cleaning and body products. Use phosphate-free washing powder and don’t use fabric softener.

Where do I start?

A good greywater system is an excellent investment, but you can start by using buckets to catch the water usually lost in the shower while you wait for it to heat up – use it to water houseplants or your veggie garden. Always try to use greywater within 24 hours.

• World Water Day, with a theme of “Nature-based solutions for water”, will be celebrated on 22 March 2018.