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How to Install Drip Irrigation

by kirsten
landscaping in chatham MA

Drip irrigation is ideal for anyone looking to save money and keep their plants happy and healthy. Landscaping specialists, such as landscaping in Chatham MA, can help you set up your DIY drip irrigation system in just a few steps.

What is Drip Irrigation?

Drip irrigation makes watering plants easier by using a series of strategically placed hoses, valves, emitters, and timers. Once you activate the system, water is released slowly and continuously to the soil, dripping onto the soil above the roots.

Drip Irrigation

Watering your garden and lawn has many ways, including hand watering or using an automated sprinkler system. Although each method may work, drip irrigation is more effective than any other and offers the following benefits:

  • Conserve water: Because the water is directly delivered to the earth’s surface, there is little or no evaporation loss. Drip irrigation systems can use as much as 50% less water than conventional methods. This aspect will reduce your carbon footprint and monthly water bills.
  • Save time: No need to set or move sprinklers or waste time unwinding or winding your garden hose.
  • Eliminate drift: Drift is when the wind carries water meant for plants. It is common when water is sprayed using a sprinkler or hose.
  • Installation is quick and easy: A DIY drip irrigation system can easily be set up in just a few minutes.
  • Adaptable: You can alter your irrigation system as your landscape changes.
  • Improve plant growth: Drip irrigation helps prevent soil erosion and nutrient loss. It also allows for slower water delivery over a longer time, which can help establish and maintain healthy roots.

How To Install Drip Irrigation

These are the supplies you will need. Most home improvement shops can also purchase a pre-made drip irrigation system.

  • Garden hose
  • Automated timer
  • Hose bib (Y-shaped connector)
  • Lines for emitter
  • Backflow prevention
  • Emitters
  • Hole punch tool
  • Filter
  • Tee fitting
  • Barbed connectors
  • Hose end-clamps
  • Tubing stakes
  • Pressure regulator
  • T-fittings
  • Plastic tubing 1/4 inch
  • Plastic tubing 1/2 inch in diameter
  • Tape measure

1. Plan.

Begin small by sketching the area where you will install your irrigation system. Then, by measuring the space, you will determine the flow rate required to water each plant in the area.

2. Install the faucet.

Attach the Y-shaped connector to the faucet, pressure regulator, timer, adapter, pressure regulator, and backflow preventer.

3. Place the tubing.

Attach the 1/2-inch tubing to the faucet, and place it in your garden according to your plans. To create branches and 90-degree bends, use T-fittings.

4. Connect the emitters.

You will need a hole punch to create holes in the tubing. After inserting a barbed connector into each one, add 1/4 inch tubing to reach the base. Secure the tubing by attaching a dripper at the required flow rate.

Tips for DIY Maintenance

  • To increase flexibility, leave your tubing in the sun for at least an hour before installing it.
  • When pruning or planting, be careful not to cut any lines.
  • As needed, replace damaged emitters.
  • You should check your emitters periodically for obstructions.

 

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