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Drip Irrigation TipsDrip irrigation sends an even, deep supply of water directly to the root zone of the plant without waste or run off. It uses up to 50% less water than conventional systems, spares plants the stress caused by the wetdry cycles of overhead watering and minimizes erosion, soil compaction, leaf burn, mold and fungal diseases. Drip irrigation, especially when the line is buried, significantly reduces weeds by watering deeply instead of on the surface (weed seeds have less access to water needed for germination). Before you install your system, you need to ascertain the flow (how many gallons per minute) you are getting from your main water line, which will help you to determine how many emitters you can run at one time. An easy way to determine this is by running water and measuring the time it takes to fill a bucket. Divide the container size in gallons by the seconds it takes to fill the container, and then multiply the result by 60. Example: If it takes 40 seconds to fill your 4 gallon bucket, you have 6 GPM. Consider whether your water has a high sediment content or not, so that you can select the proper filter set-up. You should have a vacuum breaker installed at the beginning of your irrigation system to prevent backflow which can contaminate your water supply, especially if you are connected to a well and use a fertilizer injector. Make a scale drawing of your area so that you can visualize the location of buildings, pathways, water sources and existing planted areas. Grouping plants with similar water requirements will aid in your selection of irrigation parts. Similarly, you should plan whether your planting will be on a slope or not. Drip systems are inexpensive and simple to install. With the installation of a timer, you will not have to start and stop the watering as this will provide a regular, even watering of your plants. INSTALLATION TIPS Hand tighten irrigation parts. Do not use tools as you may damage the threads. Lay ½" poly tubing in the sun before installing it to make it more pliable so that it will lay flat when you install it and be easier to insert into compression fittings. Cut poly tubing with sharp shears or pruning tools so that compression fittings fit securely. Compression fittings for the ½" poly tubing are installed by pushing and twisting. Aquapore fittings fit into the Aquapore tubing and T-Tape fittings use a loc-sleeve device that slides over the T-Tape. Use a hole punch rather than a sharp instrument (such as an ice pick) to make holes in the ½" tubing to attach any other tubing or fittings. Your attachments will be much more secure, preventing leaks.
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