What kind of open space RWH system to use in a small agricultural plot of 5000 Sq ft, having red clayey soil located in South Kerala. Also please advise what kind of water source to build (well/tank) in this soil. Are there any trees which help with water recharging? Does digging of small pits at intervals help with recharging?

I would like to know if open space RWH is possible just by digging many small pits and planting trees and plants around them, ie., without any kind of cement/brick/stone construction at all (like recharge pit). This would be like what happens in a natural place like a forest. If so what kind of trees will help retain water and which are the trees to avoid as they guzzle water (I have heard of acacia, is bamboo a water-hogger too?) Should one dig a well on the higher ground or the lower ground?

Manjula
manju3261@yahoo.com