After all the rain we have had in the last few weeks, the last thing you might feel like thinking about is conserving water, but now, just after the leaves have finished falling, is exactly the right time to start collecting.

We all take rain for granted - until there isn't any. Indeed, most of the rainwater that falls in this country goes straight down the drain - literally.

It's estimated that between 60,000 and 120,000 litres of water flow through a single downpipe each year, so it's good green sense to save water and, if there is a drought next summer, you'll be well prepared.

Start by clearing all gutters of leaves and other debris, then choose a water butt (most garden centres, DIY shops and builders merchants have a range which can vary in price from £20 to £50, depending on size).

The right butt for you will be determined by the amount of water you need for your garden and the space you have available to stand it in. Most come with a fitted tap, but if not, you can buy a separate tap with a connector for around £4.

For safety's sake, always choose one with a fitted lid - it not only keeps children and animals safe but keeps the water clean and reduces odours.

The simplest way to collect water is to use a diverter on a downpipe to channel the water into your butt. Ideally choose one with a high flow rate as they will collect the most water, even from light showers.

You do have to watch out for debris which can block the diverter when the butt is full.

Alternatively, you can simply cut off a downpipe at a level where it will flow directly into the butt. You will also need to fit an overflow pipe about 10-12cm (4-5 in) below the rim to allow excess water back to the drain.

The disadvantage of this method is that water pouring into the butt can continually disturb the sediment at the base of the butt, which in turn can clog a seep hose or drip irrigation.

Make sure your butt is firmly anchored to stop it tipping over or sinking into the ground when it fills up.

Site it on a solid block or bricks but don't forget to allow room so you can get your watering can underneath the tap.

If you want to make your watering even more efficient, consider fitting a soaker hose or drip irrigator to the tap.

A pump, the type designed for fountains, can also be fitted and will allow you to move water much further.

Don't worry about a filter - a little silt won't harm it and the pump will probably help to reduce the number of blockages.

If you want a very large water butt or tank, you can get them up to 1,500 litres plus. However, at 1.8m (6ft) tall, they are hugely difficult to disguise unless you have a very large garden.

You could always consider hiding very large steel tanks, in a roof (if it can take the weight) or underground.

, but that involves a lot more work.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.