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Q: We are currently renting a flat with small garden and started a veggie patch. How do we best collect rainwater without a rainwater tank. Buckets? Or is there a smarter solution that we potentially can take to the next place where we will live?
A: There are so many options for renters that don't need to cost a lot of money. Some options include capturing water from an accessible downpipe using any kind of large container. 200 litre barrels are often available cheaply from produce suppliers, or providores of olives or other bulk goods.
Reusing greywater is also an option. Cheap diversion devices are available to re-route water from your washing machine's rinse cycle directly to the garden. If you do this, it's improtant to use laundry detergent which is low in salt (Sodium) and phosphorus in order not to harm the plants, pollute waterways, or harm soil life. Many people keep a bucket in their shower, or bucket bath water out to the veggie patch. Be sure to use this kind of water as soon as possible so that bacteria do not have a chance to grow.
The most important thing in terms of water for veggies is the preparation and maintenance of the soil itself. It needs to be well mulched with lucerne or sugar cane or even dried grass clipplings (but be careful of weeds). The more organic matter you add to the soil, the more effectively it will hold moisture and retain its structure. Organic matter can be added as finished compost, well-rotted manures, or worm castings.
Planting crops with similar water requirements near each other is also really important. It's also easier, when starting out, to plant easy to grow things first until you become more experienced. Great crops to start with include all of the lettuces, Asian greens, silverbeet, kale, cherry tomatoes, radishes, rocket.
When you do water, morning is best and it's better to give 1-2 good soaks per week than a daily sprinkle (frequent light watering). This will help the roots to develop. Be sure to comply with water restrictions!
Q: What electric heating solutions are best, if that is the only way to heat your house (no gas, no fireplace).
There are many considerations here. The first is to adequately seal draughts, which can account for major heat loss. Door snakes and inexpensive sticky-backed foam sealing tape for doors and windows will work very well.
You need to consider the size of the space you're heating and choose an appropriately sized heater that will be the most efficient. See the Factsheet, or check out the resources on the Energy Smart website http://www.energysmart.com.au/les/DisplayPage.asp?PageID=110