Using laundry water/grey water - soap? (natural, better, garden)

[Chaka]

I will ask this in gardening as well, but figured this board may have a few people conserving water

I've been using my laundry water to water grass, and have recently started using it to water plants. However, I've noticed a few of my plants have developed yellowing leaves at the site where the water hits them (near the bottom) and one succulent just looks sick (I had poured the water directly on top rather than into the dirt, just 'cause I had to reach over the fence and it was easier that way).

I had read that soap was OK, even good for plants. But now am thinking twice. Is there a particular type of laundry detergent that's better or worse? I usually use 7th Generation detergent and if using a softener (since we only line dry clothes) use Ecover or 7th Generation.

Anyone know if 7th gen is ok for plants? It's not like I put tons of soap on them, it's just what's left in the laundry run-off.

[liljazz]

i'm learning about this to. Want to run greywater from my kitchen and laundry room. I know for sure you are not suppose to use water that has bleach. There are all natural ways to make your own soap leaving out all the harmful chemicals that are in store brand soaps. Although lately it seems like there are more "green" products in the store. If you ever want to chat about grey water or related topics, let me know! hope these are helpful
heres a couple links that are very informational
Laundry to Landscape Graywater Systems; Design and Parts
Common Greywater Mistakes and Preferred Practices
Backyard Gardener - Using Household Gray Water, July 11, 2001

[Chaka]

Thanks for the links. I've been using it for more than a month now and it seems to be ok, even with the soap. I just alternate watering - i.e. "regular" water one time, next time I water, grey water. And I'm careful not to put it directly onto leaves but into the ground around the roots. No problems now.