Guide to Irrigation

An automated irrigation system can be a game-changer for any gardener. It saves you time, conserves water, and ensures your plants receive the precise hydration they need to thrive. Whether you're considering a simple drip system for your containers or a full pop-up sprinkler system for your lawn, understanding the different types of irrigation will help you choose the best solution for your garden.

What is an Irrigation System?

An irrigation system is a network of pipes, hoses, and sprinklers or drippers designed to automatically water your garden. Instead of watering by hand with a hosepipe or watering can, a system takes care of it for you, delivering water directly to the plants. This is not only convenient but also highly efficient, as it minimises water loss from evaporation and runoff. Many systems can be connected to a water timer, allowing you to schedule watering cycles for the most effective times of the day, such as early morning.

Types of Irrigation Systems

There are three main types of irrigation systems, each suited to different parts of the garden.

Drip Irrigation Systems

Drip irrigation is a highly efficient method that delivers water slowly and directly to the plant's roots. It's perfect for flowerbeds, vegetable patches, and container gardens. The system uses a network of micro-tubing and drippers that release water one drop at a time, ensuring every plant gets exactly what it needs without any waste.

Pop-Up Sprinkler Systems

Pop-up sprinkler systems are the ultimate solution for watering lawns and large grass areas. The pipes and sprinklers are buried underground, meaning they are completely hidden from view when not in use. When the system is activated, the sprinklers rise from the ground to deliver a uniform spray. They then retract back down once watering is complete, preserving the clean look of your lawn.

Microjet and Micro-Sprinkler Systems

These systems are a hybrid of drip and sprinkler irrigation. They use a network of micro-tubing to deliver water to small sprinklers or jets that produce a gentle spray or mist. They are ideal for watering dense planting areas, greenhouses, and hanging baskets, where a drip system may not provide enough coverage but a full sprinkler system would be overkill.

Key Components of an Irrigation System

Regardless of the type, most systems share a few core components:

• Water Source: This is typically your outdoor tap. A tap connector is used to attach the system to the tap.
• Main Supply Pipe: This is the main hose that carries water from the tap to the different watering areas.
• Fittings and Connectors: These are the essential parts that join different sections of the pipe, split the water flow, and connect the various sprinklers or drippers.
• Emitters: This is the collective term for the parts that actually release the water, such as drippers, pop-up sprinklers, and micro-sprays.
• Water Timer: The most important accessory for an automatic system. A timer attaches to your tap and automates the watering schedule, so you never have to remember to turn the water on and off again.