Vegetable gardens, planters and flower beds all require regular irrigation for best results. One of the most effective and water-saving methods for watering these plants is installing a slow-drip irrigation system. These systems can be pieced together or purchased in kits at very reasonable prices. By allowing water to drip at a low rate over longer periods of time, this type of irrigation will soak the soil right at the roots of the plant with virtually no spray that can be lost to evaporation. There are a few things to keep in mind when building or considering such a drip irrigation system.
The most important part of any drip irrigation system is the pressure-reducing valve. These devices are usually installed along the plastic supply line before water can reach any of the drip heads. The valve will reduce the amount of pressure inside the water line to about 25 to 40 pounds per square inch. The reduced pressure is necessary so that high-pressure water does not blow out drip heads or other fixtures along the line.
When it comes to installing drip irrigation systems, one of the key decisions is what type of fitting to use where the water exits the supply line. There are two main types of fittings to choose from. Micro sprinklers are small sprayers that shoot water several feet. These are not good choices for slow-drip lines. Instead, choose button fittings. These fittings will release a small, regulated amount of water over a given period of time. For example, button fittings that are rated at 2 gpm will release 2 gallons of water per minute, per fitting. Button fittings are available in a wide selection of flow ratings to help you customize each head. Regardless of which kind you choose, all fittings should be located near the base of the plant they are intended to water.
Advantages of Drip Watering
Unlike conventional sprinklers, drip irrigation systems do not spray water. This reduces the effects of evaporation and prevents the kind of unsightly mold lines that can be left behind on fences or siding by traditional sprinklers. Drip lines also require less pressure to operate properly, making them compatible even with older homes, where corroded pipes may be a problem. Drip systems also can be controlled with a battery-powered timer, eliminating the need to run more complicated sprinkler controls inside the house.
Disadvantages of Drip Watering
Because of their very nature, slow-drip lines do not deliver as much water to the soil as conventional sprinklers. This can lead to problems if the fittings are spread too far apart. It's also more difficult to monitor watering with a slow-drip line. It's important to physically check the soil conditions around your plants as you water, to get a read on how long the system needs to be left on to thoroughly soak the ground. Drip lines can also pose a tripping hazard to animals and children unless they are anchored properly into the ground using special spikes designed for drip systems.
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