How to Run Gray Water From a Sink to a Tree

Install a diverter in the sink pipe leading to the main line. The size of the diverter and exactly where you install it will depend on your particular situation. It's installed by cutting the pipe with a hacksaw, then inserting the diverter valve into the line at the cut. This will allow you to send the water from the sink to the outside or down the drain with a small lever on the valve.

Drill a 1-inch hole through the wall to the outside, near the diverter valve. This should be on the side of the house closest to the tree. If the sink is not near an outside wall or is far from the tree, it may be difficult to send the gray water to the tree.

Connect a section of PVC pipe to the diverter valve and feed it out through the hole in the wall. You may need to use an elbow to accomplish this, depending on your specific situation. Use PVC cement on all joints. Fill the hole around the pipe with silicone to seal it.

Attach an elbow so that the opening angles down, then attach another section of PVC long enough to reach the ground. Use another elbow to bring the open end of the drainpipe parallel with the ground. Add PVC connectors and pipe until the outlet reaches the tree, cementing the pieces together as you go. The gray water will now run from your sink to the tree.

Create a basin around the tree to catch the sink water. A basin can help to contain the water until it can be absorbed into the ground. The easiest way to do this is to encircle the tree with bricks or pavers set about 6 inches high.

Fill the basin most of the way full with mulch. Make it at least 4 inches deep. This will hold the water until it soaks into the ground. Keep the mulch several inches away from the tree trunk to prevent moisture and insect problems.