Analog and Digital Rain Gauges

1. Whether you're a casual weekend gardener or an industrial farmer, a rain gauge can improve gardening by keeping track of rainfall and other liquid precipitation in a specific area. Most rain gauges measure precipitation in millimeters, although some can use centimeters or inches. Depending on the size of your garden and your level of investment, you can choose a rain gauge that is as high-tech or low-tech as needed.

2. Analog rain gauges are the simplest type of rain gauge on the market, and are sufficient for most casual gardeners. With an analog precipitation falls into a funnel and collects within the attached graduated cylinder. If you're looking for a basic rain gauge to keep track of rainfall, an analog gauge is your best bet.

3. If you're looking for more advanced precipitation monitoring, think about investing in a digital rain gauge. Digitals are a slightly more expensive option than standard analog gauges, but many come with other features, including time, temperature, and humidity measurements. Digital gauges can display total rain recorded, as well as rainfall in the past 24 hours.

4. Digital gauges also have the ability to sound an alarm that will alert you when precipitation reaches a specific level and can transmit data to a wireless receiver. As an added benefit, you won't have to make the trek out to empty your rain gauge, especially if it's still raining. A digital rain gauge with a self-emptying bucket will allow you to stay dry and warm indoors.

5. Wireless rain gauges are the most convenient way to water-watch. It's like the remote control of weather instruments - you never have to leave the couch, or in this case, the house. A wireless rain gauge reads precipitation levels and transfers that data to a wireless receiver within the house. Wireless rain gauges allow you to measure rainfall in a field or lawn from the comfort of your home, up to 300 feet away.

6. Rain gauges don't have to be sterile or boring. If you're looking for something a bit more unique, give your measurements some moxie with a decorative one. Decorative rain gauges can reflect your interests while adding character and charm to an outdoor setting. Most  are analog, which makes them most appealing to casual gardeners looking to combine visual interest and practicality.