!#1: Purchasing Garden Hose Timers: October 2011

!: Types of Drip and Watering Systems

Okay, not all of us have the time to water every hanging plant, window box and every square foot of yard. Even if we did, it is easy to predict that most of us have had enough of watering once our hanging and potted plants have been tended. So, what are other viable options for our lawn, gardening areas, vegetable beds, and water features? Some are self-tending; all of them are efficient with little maintenance once installed.

Installed systems can reduce water consumption, especially handy in areas where water conservation is key. If you have a concern about the view of your garden with permanent irrigation devices showing, know that there are pop-up sprinklers which remain virtually hidden amidst your landscape to accommodate your needs. There are a number of different irrigation systems to choose from to ensure that your garden is kept sufficiently well-watered.

Drip systems can be installed below ground. They are extremely effective, releasing water directly to the root systems of the plants in your garden or even your greenhouse with no run-off or evaporation loss. As water is applied to the roots, not the leaves of your plants, drip systems reduce the possibilities of fungal and insect damage. They suit all soil, topography, and plant types, too.

Above-ground sprinkling systems ensure the areas that need to be watered are actually receiving the water. A variety of sprinkler heads can be installed. Many have adjustable flow rates.

Tired of spending time each week lifting your watering can or garden hose over your head? Believe it or not, there are also irrigation kits for window boxes, planters, roof gardens, hanging baskets, and more. These kits water your plants evenly and slowly, too, with no run-off water wasted. Irrigation kits can be attached to your garden hose or directly to your outdoor faucet easily - and can even be put on a timer.

Especially handy for drier climates, another method for saving time and water is to add a timed irrigation system. Of course, if your area enjoys a surplus of rainfall, you would turn the system off until your local water table (highest level of ground wholly saturated with water) and rainfall levels adjust back to normal.

For any of the drip system and permanent irrigation methods, you will want to plan your garden grouping together plants of similar watering requirements. Remember that more mature shrubs and blooms will need less water than new plantings. An adequate watering system is well worth the investment and will quickly pay for itself in money and time saved.