An adequate and dependable water supply is key to a lush garden. Ensure a beautiful yard by choosing an irrigation system that’s right for your landscape.
Watering Options
When it comes to watering your yard, you have a variety of options. You may even be using some of these methods or tools already.
Drip Irrigation
As its name implies, a drip irrigation system is designed to deliver small amounts of water over an extended period of time. This incremental process allows water to completely permeate the soil down to the root zone of your plants. With such slow and direct delivery, drip systems don’t produce runoff and use up to 50% less water overall.
Regular maintenance is vital to keeping your drip system functioning properly. The tubing requires periodic flushing to prevent clog
ging and buildup. Also, be mindful of installing tubing in high traffic areas as it can get damaged and worn more quickly.
Spray System
Spray sprinkler systems are a popular choice among homeowners. They offer the convenience of automated operation and customization. They can accommodate any type of landscape design with the option of pop-up or shrub-style sprinklers.
If you’re looking for quick application, a spray system delivers water to large areas in minimal time. However, they’re less effective for denser soil types. Compacted soil struggles to absorb the quick sprinkler sprays, which results in greater amounts of runoff and a huge water bill.
Additionally, keep an eye out for any valve leaks or busted sprinkler heads. Spray systems can easily be damaged by lawnmowers or heavy foot traffic.
Rotor System
Automated rotor systems are very similar to spray systems. But, where spray system sprinklers are resigned to a fixed position, rotor heads can pivot and spray in arcs. This makes rotor systems ideal for large, odd-shaped areas and sloped surfaces.
The powerful jet streams of rotor sprinklers are propelled by strong water pressure. Consequently, a rotor system may not be an option for those with low water pressure issues.
Soaker Hose
Soaker hoses are generally used to manually supplement an automated system. They are designed similarly to drip systems. Tiny holes cover the entire length of a garden hose, allowing small amounts of water to seep out and into plants’ root bed. Soaker hoses are a great way to supply direct moisture to small patches of soil; but, they’re inefficient when it comes to watering larger areas like a lawn or terrace.
Above-Ground Sprinklers
Like a soaker hose, above-ground sprinklers are operated manually. They are adapters that attach right to the end of a basic garden
Like a soaker hose, above-ground sprinklers are operated manually. They are adapters that attach right to the end of a basic gardenhose. Once you turn the hose on, the sprinkler emits a uniform stream of water in a stationary, oscillating, or rotating fashion. These sprinkler attachments are excellent for covering big areas, but they also produce excessive runoff.
Defining Your Needs
On average, outdoor usage accounts for about 30% of your water bill. Therefore, choose a watering method that’s both effective and efficient. Refine your decision by considering these factors:
- Size of the area-Don’t waste resources by installing a full sprinkler system if you only have a few planter boxes that you can easily water by hand.
- Water restrictions-If you live in a drought-prone region, you may need a system that readily adapts to unpredictable watering schedules and restrictions.
- Budget-Keep in mind not only the cost to initially install your system but also the cost of running it.
Hire professionals to assist you in choosing watering option that’s right for your plants and your wallet. Professionals can ensure your system is properly installed and functioning at optimal efficiency. Scheduling routine maintenance will also extend the life of your system and, subsequently, your garden beds.