Rainwater harvesting in the Swiss garden: sustainable and cost-saving

In Switzerland, water is increasingly becoming a valuable resource - even in private gardens. Families with children and a passion for gardening in particular want to get their plants through the summer reliably without wasting drinking water. At the same time, utility costs are constantly rising, which makes alternative water sources such as rainwater more attractive. Rainwater harvesting offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution: natural water straight from the sky, without any pipe costs.

In this article, you will find out why rainwater harvesting makes particular sense for Swiss gardens, which systems are available and how you as a family can plan and implement a safe, efficient and environmentally friendly rainwater system - tailored to your budget, space and garden size. Whether you are tending a vegetable garden, watering a raised bed or planning a new garden: this guide provides answers and inspiration for a greener home.

Why is it worth using rainwater in the Swiss garden?

Water is considered abundantly available in Switzerland, but climate change is increasingly leading to dry summers - especially on the Central Plateau, in Central Switzerland and in Valais. Rainfall is often sporadic and heavy, while longer periods of drought put a strain on the garden. This shows how valuable rainwater harvesting really is for hobby gardeners.

Ecologically sensible and plant-friendly

Rainwater is free of chlorine and lime and is therefore ideal for plants, vegetables and lawns. Using rainwater also relieves the municipal sewage system during heavy rainfall. Instead of wasting tap water, you are using a natural resource - particularly important in natural gardens, where sustainability, biodiversity and environmental awareness play a central role.

In family gardens in particular, this can be passed on to children and brought to life in everyday life - from watering raised beds to playing with rainwater.

Noticeable reduction in water costs

Depending on the region, Swiss households pay between CHF 1.50 and CHF 3.00 per cubic meter of water - including wastewater charges. In a garden with a large lawn, flower beds or fruit trees, several thousand liters of water are quickly used per season. Rainwater as a free alternative significantly reduces this expense.

The investment is also worthwhile with regard to automatic irrigation systems: rainwater storage tanks with pumps supply your plants as required - and help to reduce electricity and water consumption.

Which rainwater solutions are right for your garden?

The best option for your garden depends on the area, available roof space and budget. Two systems in particular have proven themselves in Swiss households: Rain barrels for smaller gardens and cisterns for larger systems or new builds with garden planning.

Rain barrel: the easy entry point for family gardens

The classic rain barrel is connected to the downpipe and collects rainwater from the roof of the house or garage. Depending on the model, it has a storage capacity of between 100 and 500 liters, which is more than enough for watering vegetable patches, lawns or potted plants.

Frost-proof rain barrels with a tight-fitting lid are ideal for Swiss climatic conditions, as they prevent both mosquitoes and safety risks. Many models have a tap or can be combined with small pumps.

• Advantages: cost-effective, quick to install, ideal for smaller areas
• Disadvantages: limited supply, often insufficient during prolonged dry spells

Cistern: Sustainable solution for large water requirements

Anyone planning a larger garden, a new house or extensive irrigation will rely on underground cisterns. These can hold from 1,000 to over 10,000 liters and are supplemented by underground water storage tanks with a filter system and pump - ideal for combined use with lawn sprinklers, drip irrigation or even toilet flushing.

In Switzerland, permits are often required for cisterns. Ask your building authority about the specific requirements in your canton or municipality at an early stage.

• Advantages: high storage capacity, can be used all year round, suitable for irrigation systems
• Disadvantages: higher costs, professional installation required

What needs to be considered when planning a rainwater system?

Before deciding on a system, it is advisable to realistically assess your own water requirements, the roof area and the family's garden use. This will help you choose the right size and avoid additional costs later on.

Calculate the location and storage volume

The location for a rain barrel should be close to the downpipe; a shady location prevents the water from tipping over in summer. Place the barrel on a stable base. For cisterns, pay particular attention to frost-free depth, good accessibility and filter connection.

Calculation: Approx. 600 to 800 liters of rainwater can be collected per square meter of roof surface per year. A 60 m² roof can collect up to 48,000 liters per year - a huge savings potential that can be exploited with the right system.

Safety aspects for children in the garden

Safety is key in family gardens. Rain barrels should be childproof and locked. Alternatively, models with a lockable lid, protective grating or fencing are available. If the system is freely accessible, clear markings are recommended.

Cisterns have solid, lockable lids. Nevertheless, do not leave children unattended in the vicinity. Simple tips on how to behave also help to keep your garden safe.

How do I practically implement rainwater harvesting in the garden?

The implementation differs depending on the system. While rain barrels can be installed quickly by yourself, professional support is recommended for underground systems - e.g. from gardening, plumbing or building services companies.

Installing a rain barrel - step by step

• Determine the location - as close as possible to the downpipe
• Select a suitable barrel with lid and drain tap
• Shorten the downpipe and install the rainwater collector with filter
• Connect collector to barrel, optionally with winter shut-off
• Place the barrel on a stable base (stone slabs or plastic platform)

Choice of material for every type of garden

Plastic tanks with UV resistance are ideal for small areas - lightweight and easy to maintain. If you like a rustic flair, go for wooden barrels (regular maintenance required). Underground cisterns are usually made of concrete or plastic.

Decorative solutions such as rain barrels with a pillar look or with integrated planters from Swiss brands such as Garantia or Gärtner Pötschke Switzerland are also becoming increasingly popular - practical, homely and functional at the same time.

How do I maintain my rainwater system in the long term?

Good maintenance ensures optimum water quality and a long service life for the system. It is particularly important in the transition between spring/summer and fall/winter.

Regular cleaning and inspection

Clean rain barrels in spring and fall with clear water. Leaves, algae and dirt should be removed. Check taps and seals for cracks. Filters and rainwater collectors should be cleaned every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on how dirty they are.

A specialist company is recommended for cisterns - at least every 2 to 3 years. This involves checking the pump, replacing the filter and cleaning the interior. Chemical agents should not be used.

What you should avoid

• No direct sun on the rain barrel - prevent algae formation
• Empty or prepare frost-proof in winter
• No long standing times without water withdrawal
• Only apply clear water to plants - no stagnant or heavily contaminated water

What does it cost to implement a rainwater system in Switzerland?

The costs vary depending on the size of the garden, storage volume and type of installation. While simple solutions cost less than CHF 200, professional cisterns with accessories cost in the four-figure range - but are a worthwhile investment in the long term.

Example cost overview

• Rain barrel (200-500 liters): CHF 80 to 300
• Filter/rainwater collector: approx. 30 to 80 CHF
• Pump for garden operation: from 100 CHF
• Cistern incl. accessories (from 5,000 liters): from approx. 2,000 CHF
• Installation and civil engineering work: additional CHF 1,500 to 4,000

Subsidy programs in Switzerland

Some cities and municipalities support rainwater projects with subsidies or grants. In Zurich, there are subsidies for environmentally friendly garden irrigation. The canton of Bern also has programs for infiltration and rainwater harvesting.

Enquire at your municipal administration or on bafu.admin.ch for specific options and conditions.

Conclusion: Rainwater harvesting - sensible, sustainable, family-friendly

In times of rising temperatures, dwindling resources and growing environmental responsibility, rainwater harvesting in the garden offers a well thought-out solution - ecologically, economically and educationally valuable.

Whether as a simple rain barrel in the family garden or a professional cistern with irrigation system: clever use of rainwater saves money, protects the environment and enriches everyday garden life. At the same time, children can playfully learn how valuable water is - a benefit for all generations.

Take advantage of the next rainy season and start your sustainable garden project today.