Where I live the cost of water from our public utility company has skyrocketed. I imagine yours has too. There are just the two of us living in our house and we do try to conserve water somewhat, but we have to shower everyday and wash our clothes. Our monthly bills are getting closer to $100 with each bill.

Once upon a time, I watered the plantings in our yard on a regular basis, but no more. We have a small yard but even watering that would become expensive. So, I depend on nature to take care of the watering. So far this summer we've had plenty of rain. I hope you have too for your lawn's sake. Even with the rain though, our soil gets dry quickly and should be watered. A few hot sunny days parches the yard and leaves the plants wilting and we're not even into the dry season yet. The shrubs and plants were cheap and I literally sweated over them so I can't afford to lose them.  What to do?

I remember rain barrels from my youth. Any old large sturdy container was used. They were ugly. Today they don't have to be unattractive. In fact, with the rain catchers now on the market, they can add beauty to your overall landscaping design while still providing a much needed function.

Made of plastic, they have the look of terracotta. Most people have to touch them to realize they aren't pottery. Depending on the size you buy, they can hold anywhere from fifty gallons to sixty-five gallons of rain water. Water weighs about eight pounds a gallon, so it's important to get it placed where you'll keep it before the rain fills it up.

The rain catchers on the right have a screen to keep debris from falling into the rain collector and some have a small container for a plant on top. There is a spigot near the bottom so when you attach a hose, gravity will empty it completely. This is an important feature because stagnant water left in the bottom will begin to smell bad.

Some people have cut off their downspouts and placed the rain barrel under the spout so the water will run directly into the collector. Most everyone sets the barrel on top of a few pavers to allow the water to flow better when the spigot is turned on.

I think it would be attractive placed right in the flower or shrub bed with low-growing plants hiding the base of pavers but allowing the entire area to be watered when dry.

If you live in a development where there is a Home Owners Association and the rules wouldn't allow you to have an ordinary rain barrel because of its unsightly appearance, one of these would not detract from the appearance.

The only complaint I've heard is that the hose that is included is flimsy and won't last. That problem can easily be remedied with another hose of better quality from your local store.

Emerald green grass surrounded by bright, colorful flowers and healthy lush shrubs is a yard to be envied and you can have it without having your water bills soar.