Stained Rain Water ?

[rich63]

I have a question about collecting rain water.I live in a apartment.No one every cleans out the gutters.They are always full of oak leaves.I have collected some rain water that has overflowed the gutters.But,the water is stained, like a very weak tea color.Almost a yellow tint.Will is water harm my orchids? I do not want to used it,without knowing if the oak leaf run off could be harmful.How could I do a simple test to find out? Thanks,Rich

[cindiras]

Tannin. You may want to check the PH level. If it is around 5 (acid) from the tannin, I would think it is usable. Lower than that, I don't think so.

[Brutal_Dreamer]

I agree. Get a ph test kit and check the level.

Cheers,
BD