Recycling Gray Water

John W. Jett Horticulture Specialist WVU Extension Service 7/00 Recycling waste water can stretch your water budget during the hot summer months. Gray water, which is recycled shower, bath, and laundry water, can be used to keep thirsty plants alive, but some precautions should be followed. Because gray water has not been disinfected, it could be contaminated. A careful, commonsense approach to the use of gray water, however, can virtually eliminate any potential hazard. The following precautions are recommended: Never use gray water for direct consumption. Gray water should not be used directly on anything that may be eaten. Gray water should not be sprayed, allowed to puddle, or run off property. Use only water from clothes washing, bathing or the bathroom sink. Do not use water that has come in contact with soiled diapers, meat or poultry, or anyone with an infectious disease. Plant specialists warn that gray water should not be used on vegetables, seedlings, container plants or acid-loving plants such as azaleas, begonias, and rhododendrons. Gray water should be rotated with fresh water to leach out any harmful build-up. Chlorine bleach may damage plants, especially if it touches the foliage. Biodegradable soaps appear to have the least harmful effects.