Rain water could be ok but I think distilled is safer.
I had my plants on the fire escape. I am sure rain collects particles of rust and debris from roofs and the fire escape itself. Also it absorbs emissions from cars and factories that are present in an urban area.
I mean if we live in a city and we complain about pollution in the air... Well there should be even more pollution in clouds and rain water.
Probably if you live in the countryside the rain may be cleaner. But I have doubts about rain in the NYC/NJ area.
Drinking Rain Water
Is it safe to cook with rainwater? - Food and Cooking - Stack Exchange
you can read this but just scrolling down and looking at photos of effects on trees and statues should say something
Acid rain - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
or article about the safety of drinking rainwater
Drinking Rainwater | Rainwater Harvesting Guide
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