Connecting a rain barrel to a downspout is a very simple and efficient way to conserve water for gardening and watering, especially in drought conditions. Unless you've decided to turn to xeriscaping, collecting rainwater seems like a no-brainer. It helps reduce your garden’s reliance on the municipal water supply, reduce the runoff entering the storm drains, and provides water free from the chemicals often found in tap water. Because we’re DIYer’s, we know the importance of planning, so before installing one of these fundamental assets to your garden, take a few things into consideration: