Drip Irrigation- A Brief Overview of Its Uses And Benefits

Drip irrigation has traditionally been used in commercial nursery and farm operations, but homeowners are increasingly discovering its uses and benefits.

Drip irrigation is an efficient and cost-effective method of watering your lawn and garden. Drip irrigation has traditionally been used in commercial nursery and farm operations, but homeowners are increasingly discovering its uses and benefits. Unlike sprinkler irrigation, which is only 65-75% efficient, drip irrigation is 90% efficient at allowing plants to use the water applied. Furthermore, it reduces runoff and evaporation. Drip irrigation slowly delivers water to the plant root zone, where it is most needed.

Benefits of Drip Irrigation

The process of drip irrigation comprises installing emitter-equipped tubing near the plants. The emitters slowly drip water into the root zone of the soil. Plant productivity and quality improve as moisture levels are kept within an optimal range. Furthermore, drip irrigation:

Prevents disease by reducing water contact with plant leaves, stems, and fruit.

Allows for dry rows between plants, improving access and reducing weed growth.

The system saves time, money, and water because it is so effective.

Reduces labor.

Improves performance on uneven terrain.

Minimizes leaching of water and nutrients below the root zone.

Main Components of Drip Irrigation System

The mainline, valve, sub-main, backflow preventer, pressure regulator, filter, tubing adapters and fittings, drip tubing, emitters, and end caps are the main components of a drip irrigation system.

The mainline is the pipe that connects the water source - typically your outdoor faucet - to the valve, and the sub-main is the pipe that connects the valve to the drip tubing. The valve regulates water flow into the system and can be set for automatic or manual operation.

Drip Irrigation Process

Drip irrigation begins with a simple connection to a common hose or spigot. The connection may differ slightly depending on the system.

Connect your main supply lines to the zone valves.

After you have run your supply lines, it's time to tap into them with a special tapping tool included with the kit. Once tapped, the drip lines are installed (shown above). The supply lines have a larger diameter than the drip lines.