What Water Source Should I Use in My Tower Garden?

Choosing the right water source for your Tower Garden is crucial for healthy plant growth. Below, we break down the most common water sources, their benefits, and considerations to help you decide what's best for your garden.

1. Well Water

Well water is an excellent choice for Tower Gardens, as it often contains beneficial minerals. However, it’s wise to use an in-line filter to remove odors and sediment. If your water contains high iron levels, consider a filter designed to reduce iron deposits, which can build up in the Tower Garden's shower cap and pots. Filters typically range from $20–$50, and their lifespan depends on the volume of water filtered. We offer a filter here.

2. City Water

City water often contains chlorine or chloramine, which may impact plant growth. While some plants tolerate these chemicals, others may struggle, especially after being transplanted and/or in extreme temperatures. If your seedlings wilt after moving to the Tower Garden, your water source could be the culprit.

Chlorine

Chlorine is relatively easy to remove. Here’s how:

• Sun Exposure: Fill food-grade buckets with water and let them sit in the sun for 24–48 hours. This will allow the chlorine to dissipate. Cover the buckets afterward to prevent algae growth.

Chloramine

Chloramine is more challenging to remove as it doesn’t dissipate easily. Its half-life in boiling water is 26.6 hours, compared to 1.8 hours for chlorine. This persistence can stunt plant growth and fruit production.

How to Remove Chlorine/Chloramine:

• Filters: Inexpensive filters (ranging from $20–$80) effectively remove chlorine and chloramine. This filter is a cost effective option
• Avoid Neutralizing Liquids: While marketed as safe for plants, many contain chemicals like sodium hypochlorite (bleach), which may be absorbed by your plants and affect their safety for consumption.
• Boiling: Due to the time required, boiling is impractical for removing chloramine or chlorine from large water volumes.

3. Rainwater

Rainwater is a great natural option, but it may require testing and treatment to remove contaminants like airborne dust, bird feces, and other debris.

4. Reclaimed or Lake Water

We do not recommend reclaimed or lake water due to potential contamination from pesticides, herbicides, and other pollutants from neighboring areas.

5. Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water

RO water is suitable for Tower Gardens, as the carbon filter in RO systems effectively removes chloramine. Ensure your filter is not depleted to maintain water quality.

By understanding the characteristics of different water sources and how to treat them, you can ensure your Tower Garden thrives year-round. Do you have a favorite water source or tips for treating water? Share them in the comments below!

Ready to grow? Order your Tower Garden here.