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So much stagnant 'water'

PhwoffyPhwoffy Posts: 1
in Problem solving

Hi folks,

I have joined you to ask my first as-yet unsolved query as I begin my gardening adventure...

We have lived in a rented cottage for 3 years, and for various reasons I am only now beginning to be properly interested in sorting out the garden. In our garden are three water 'butts' - more just three big containers, with no tap for emptying - filled with stagnant... stuff. I have just half emptied one and found many bugs, naturally, but much worse in scraps of wood, paint pots, cloth etc. We have also been told that previous tenants used to empty cooking oil into them...

Our garden is completely grass - although grass is perhaps being kind - and the drainage isn't very good. As full as they are, there's no hope in my upending one, but knowing what might be in there (and the unknowns!) I'm not sure if that would be a good idea for anyone. We are in the country so few neighbours to upset, but the cottage is surrounded by a sheep field and I know there are, at least, hedgehogs and mice on the ground.

Are there any thoughts on the best way to empty these horrible things without causing too much damage/swampiness? Thoughts/ideas very much appreciated :)

Posts

  • Hostafan1Hostafan1 Posts: 34,889

    I can't imagine a bucket a day down the drain will cause any problems.

    Devon.
  • willbarawillbara Posts: 50

    if you attach your hose to the tap, put the other end into the water butt,well down the butt, wait for the water to start coming through then quickly pull  the end attached to the tap off the tap you will find that water will start draining from the butt.                                                                                                            no hard graft involved             

     

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