Hi vern,

Litmas paper works or take a water sample to a testing lab for analysis for whatever chemicals you are worried about including Ph. Depending on your roof material you may find some interesting results. Coloform bacteria from animals and bird feces will be the most worrisome. Don't drink the water. Anyone else have a suggestion? Aloha.

Hi,

I am actually looking for some information on finding large plastic barrels to construct rain barrels from. The ready made ones are too pricey and I would like to find some. Tried some car washes and yahoo freecycle groups. So far no luck. Any information on how to find these for less would be greatly appreciated.

I have been using General Hydroponics' pH test kits from www.wormsway.com for years.

To grow any plants hydroponically, you have to keep your TDS and pH in check.

This little test kit requires half a vile of sample water, and then you squirt in 3 drops of the indicator solution. Rainwater is usually dead on neutral for me at 7.0...or "green means grow." The control kit also includes an "acid" and a "base", to adjust for neutral water.

You could probably find a simlar pH test kit at a local pet store, for aquarium usage...after all, it's for checking water...or a pool supply place.

I have never been fond of litmus paper...it is hard to guage, and usually worthless. I've tried it on beer, coffee, water, and just don't care for it. :D

I too just ordered a Rain Reserve diverter kit on-line, but don't feel too good about Outdoordecor.com. I haven't heard any follow-up, since I ordered the thing last Wednesday, and on-line info for them is old and dated...'01-'02.

Happy gardening!

P.S. I might check out your vendor's site and cancel my Outdoordecor.com order...I just feel uneasy about them and the card transaction.

Here is a link that might be useful: Worm's Way pH control kit.