How to make your drip irrigation system a success
Running a flower farm has forced me to learn quite a bit about drip irrigation and watering systems, probably more than I would ever want to know. I thought I’d put together a Drip Irrigation tips post, and hopefully save some poor souls from the mistakes I have made over the years, save some beautiful plants and some money.
Here is my list of Drip Tips:
Do it right the first time.
We all have busy lives, and I have recognized time is our most valuable resource. If I had a dollar for every “temporary” irrigation line or drip I have put in place, well, I’d have a ton of dollars. Home Depot, Lowes, Ace, they are all villains in the game of irrigation. Easy, do-it-yourself kits, aisles with components, and irrigation gadgets are plentiful and beckon the gardener to just get it done. I would advise you to take a step back, take a deep breath, and put something in for today that will let you expand your system…in other words, do a little planning with the big picture in mind. There are some links at the end of the article to help, and great irrigation references.
Use Quality Irrigation Components.
Quality. Quality. Quality. Irrigation components are expensive, and the upfront cost for a quality drip system can be hard on the pocket book. But take it from someone who has tried to cut corners, that cheap set of drip emitters on Amazon can bring your system to its knees, waste water and ruin your water flow plan and possibly your landscape. I recommend some of the online drip irrigation specialty retailers as a first pick, and the typical brand names you find at the home improvement stores as a second.
Know Your Water System Characteristics
Are you on city water? Well? Irrigation or ditch water? There are 3 primary water source characteristics you should know before starting:
What is your water pressure?
What is your irrigation flow rate?
Does your water have particulate matter and biologics?
Knowing the characteristics of your input water system will save you time and effort, and prevent water disasters
Whether you need help installing a drip system or tips for selecting the right drip irrigation equipment, Sprinkler Warehouse can supply you with the right know-how and can-do.
How does drip irrigation save water?
Drip irrigation saves water by delivering directly to the plant’s root zone, minimizing evaporation and runoff and allowing for precise control over water application. These water-saving features make drip irrigation a highly efficient and environmentally friendly irrigation method.
Is dripline irrigation less expensive than traditional irrigation?
Dripline irrigation offers significant advantages, but it may require additional upfront investment compared to traditional irrigation systems. However, the long-term water and every savings, improved plant health, and reduced environmental impact make dripline irrigation an increasingly popular and sustainable choice for efficient water management in agriculture and landscaping.
It’s All About the Connection
Any connection point within your system creates a possible leak and point of failure. Make sure all your connections are secure and done properly. Here are some tips:
Use a tool that makes clean even cuts for solid connections
Ensure your barbed connections are fully covered
Use pipe tape where required
Routinely check your system for weakened connections or leaks
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