4 Types of Drip Irrigation Systems Explained

Drip irrigation systems are also known as trickle irrigation, which proves to be one of the most preferred methods of irritating. It is easy to install, inexpensive to utilize, and helps in reducing disease problems that are associated with different levels of moisture on plants. It has also proved to be efficient due to factors such as the water being able to soak into the soil before evaporating. Secondly, the water directly drips to the roots of the plants, where it is needed rather than being sprayed everywhere, with the help of a number of pipes, tubes, and emitters.

There are various types of drip irrigation systems. Some of them make use of small sprinkler parts to drip water to small types of areas while some of the systems utilize flexible tubing to drip water on the bottom of the plants.

1. Porous Soaker Hose Systems

This system is quite easy to operate and mainly used in hedges, rows of shrubs, and garden beds, but might prove to be difficult to use in lawns. They are made of recycled automobile tires, which has numerous tiny holes in it. These porous hoses end up sweating water along their entire length and very durable in nature.

2. Emitter Drip System

This type of irrigation system is made of a number of hoses throughout the garden. Each hose has a number of evenly spaced emitters in them, say about 15 inches apart. They end up releasing small drops of water into the soil and are particularly good for landscapes with shrubs. These emitters clog easily. It is best to avoid this by bringing these hoses inside during the winter season.

3. Watermatic Drip System

This is one of the most important types of drip irrigation system. This drip irrigation system helps in achieving water conservation by minimizing evaporation. It makes use of devices such as micro spray heads, which are used for trees and flower beds. This irrigation can even be utilized in areas of water conservation, where recycled water is used for irrigation purposes.

4. Micro Misting Sprinklers

These sprinklers are mainly built for vineyards and orchards, but are now starting to be used in backyards as well. This type of system provides water to the roots evenly, saving water and helping trees to increase their yields. One of their main advantages is that the mist helps in keeping the shallow roots cool and refreshes the flowers; protecting the buds and flowers from the frost in the spring weather. Furthermore, they also prove to be quiet inexpensive, 40 of them costs the same amount as one impact sprinkler.

Though drip irrigation is very simple and easy to use, there are still some things which should be kept in mind such as the cost required for the purchase of this drip irrigation. It costs about $500 to $1,200 per acre. It might also prove to be very unsatisfactory if the herbicides need sprinkling for activation. Therefore, redesigning your weed control program needs to be done. Drip irrigation can lead in increasing production, particularly in a place where irrigation has already taken place.