Drip Irrigation
We all know that saving water is essential. It always has been, but – these days – we are more aware than ever that our water is a precious natural resource meant to be conserved.
But if we are also the owners of a healthy green backyard with lots of trees and shrubs or a particularly large or elaborate flower or vegetable garden, we also understand that regular watering is essential for the well-being of that outdoor area we treasure so much.
That’s why more and more homeowners that care about both their garden and their water consumption have chosen drip irrigation as the method for maintaining their green spaces.
What Is Drip Irrigation?
Drip irrigation falls into the category of “micro-irrigation”, which refers to low-flow or low-volume irrigation that limits water usage. Micro-irrigation is often used in agriculture to water row crops or by vintners for their rows and rows of grapes, which are usually planted in straight lines.
Drip irrigation distributes small amounts of water through a network of pipes, tubing, and valves, allowing the water to drip slowly and to be directed straight to the root zones of plants. It’s actually quite an old practice. Historians say an ancient form of drip irrigation was used back in first century China, though modern drip irrigation was invented in the mid-19th century and first popularized in Europe before coming to Canada and the U.S.
This low volume application of water directly to plant roots assists in maintaining a desirable balance of air and water in the soil, which makes plants grow better. Furthermore, these systems are easily installed in narrow or odd-shaped, out-of-the-way areas where plants often do not receive the water they need.
Today’s drip irrigation systems are highly efficient vs. traditional sprinkler systems and are designed to work well for the home garden.
They are regularly recommended to homeowners who want to:
- Lessen soil erosion
- Lessen weed growth
- Minimize fertilizer and nutrient loss
- Eliminate the need for garden/yard leveling to control flow
- Minimize water loss due to runoff or evaporation
- Reduce energy costs
Furthermore, drip irrigation can be operated in just about any kind of weather, even during high winds or extended windy periods. Winterization for the system is minimal.
Using such a system can also save maintenance costs on your home. For example, traditional sprinkler systems spray where you don’t want them to spray, including on siding and fences where mold and deterioration can occur. Sprinkler system runoff can also harm pavements and other hardscape fixtures by prompting wear and tear caused by runoff.
Drip irrigation systems can also be adapted, changed, or expanded quite easily when garden size or configuration is altered.
Drip Irrigation Installation
Some DIYers do install drip irrigation systems on their own, but our experts at Huckleberry Landscape Design have years and years of experience installing such systems and can do the job correctly and efficiently the first time. In addition, we know the ins and outs of how to place the system so that our homeowners reap the most benefits.
One of our professionals will work with you to determine the size of the system you need, where the pipes will be installed, and what will be required for regular maintenance.
Once installed, the drip irrigation system is easily controlled and monitored by an automated control or even a “smart home” application. You set the included timers to turn the water on and off as needed or use a smart device to regulate watering schedules and to regularly peruse reports on water usage and other details.
Intrigued? For more information on drip irrigation systems, call us for details or for a free no-obligation consultation.
