Would the water from my well be suitable for my garden?
Question:I have a shallow well and draw water from this for drinking. However I live in the north and the water is approximately 5degC (41degF) when drawn out, even in the summer. I am also aware that groundwater may have less oxygen in it than say rain water. Tap water is not an option, but I could collect rain water or fill a tank with groundwater and use it later after it has "warmed". However these are alternative options are not so easy and I would prefer to use it straight from the well. I would be spraying the water, would this allow aeration and warming or would it still be unacceptable? What do you think?
Thanks for your help.
Answers:
Water from your well is great for your garden! The water from my well is frequently (almost) as cold as yours, even when it's 100 degrees here in Oklahoma; it's sometimes so cold it numbs my feet when I spray them. I have never had any adverse effects spraying cold well water on my plants. You don't mention how far north you live, and it would be interesting to know what temperature your rainwater is.
Do you live in the arctic or something?
I can't believe water from a shallow well is that cold in the summer.
Spraying the water will add oxygen. I would suggest running the water through as much black hose as possible before it hits the plants. If the hose is out in the sun it should help warm the water.
If you can drink it, it should be OK. Just don't give them cool water at noon, on a hot day!
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