Acquire a tank for the water system. As a minimum, tank capacity should be at least enough to water the garden for one day. For example, a 55 gallon drum could be used for a small garden.
Place four concrete blocks on the ground about two feet apart. Excavate or add gravel under the blocks until they are level. Place two 4-by-4-inch wood beams between the blocks spaced 24 inches apart. The beams can run in either direction between blocks. Set a clean 55 gallon barrel on top of the beams.
Place a valve at the bottom of the tank, if necessary. Some tanks already come equipped with a drain valve. If not, drill a 1-inch hole through the tank and fit the valve through the hole by pushing the stem of the valve through the opening by hand. Tighten a compression fitting on the the valve stem on the inside of the tank. Caulk around the valve to create a waterproof seal.
Attach a garden hose to the valve to provide water to the garden.