Surviving Water Restrictions With Drip Irrigation
Absolutely Bushed Landscaping specializes in professional installation of
drip irrigation systems in the DFW area.
Drip irrigation systems are ultra efficient – and are ideal for watering pots, beds, and trees. The goal of any irrigation system is to efficiently put water on plants.
The most important details to consider in installing drip irrigation:
- Exactly how much water is distributed
- How efficiently the system runs
Other Water Saving Landscape and Irrigation Techniques: Not as Efficient
There are many techniques for distributing water to landscape – including flood irrigation (used in agriculture), pop-up spray systems commonly used to water lawns, as well as drip irrigation.
Flood irrigation is often used in areas where water canals flow through the country. They supply fields and yards with water that is siphoned out of the canal. The water is routed onto the desired area in large amounts, to be absorbed into the soil and to the root zone. For areas with an abundant water supply, this is a very effective method of watering.
Pop-up spray irrigation systems have several common problems that cause the system to be less efficient. A pop-up system can have too much pressure, causing lots of mist which evaporates and is water wasted. Spray heads are also easy to knock out of alignment (think lawn mowers and kids). Poorly adjusted pop-up spray heads that throw water onto sidewalks or into the street are not efficient at saving water (or money).
Drip Irrigation to the Rescue
Drip irrigation is on the other end of the spectrum: very efficient, using only the water needed. With drip irrigation, water at low pressure is applied to small areas. Water evaporation losses from misting are eliminated, and flooding and runoff to undesired areas are removed.
Drip irrigation, simply put, is a method of applying water directly to a target root zone in a controlled manner, limiting water loss.
Components of a do-it-yourself drip irrigation system include an anti-siphon device to protect drinking water, fittings and also filters to trap small particles of sand and grit that can otherwise clog the small orifices of drip systems.
Do-it-yourself kits for homeowners are available at most garden centers; hardware stores and irrigation supply stores sell kits starting at less than $100. These kits include everything needed to set up a simple drip system. Including an anti-siphon device, a number of fittings, nozzles, plus a given amount of pipe (depending on the intended application). Simple and easy to follow instructions help with installation, which can often be completed in one afternoon. Timers can also be added for ease of operation.
DIY Drip Irrigation or Get Expert Installation?
Installing drip irrigation can be fairly simple or quite complex, depending on the area needing coverage. Small, stand-alone systems designed simply to water patio pots; beds and trees are ideal for do-it-yourselfers.
Whole Lawn Drip Irrigation Systems Need Expert Installation
Larger systems, which are generally added to existing lawn systems, can be installed to water lawns and all landscape plants. These types of systems are best left to the professionals. Absolutely Bushed Landscaping specializes in the professional installation of drip irrigation systems in the Dallas area. Preserving your lawn and landscaping during scorching north Texas summer heat – and saving money on watering – is possible!
Reasons to Hire a Professional to Install Drip Irrigation
Keep in mind that there are several state laws that govern potable community water systems; it’s sometimes easier and less expensive to hire a professional. Texas requires that anyone servicing or installing irrigation systems for a fee be licensed by the state. Texas further requires that all drip irrigation systems incorporate a backflow prevention device to protect drinking water from contamination by back siphoning.
Before installing your drip irrigation system, check with your local water provider to determine exactly what type of safety requirements or preventive measures are necessary.
Protect your home’s value, your landscaping – and enjoyment of your outdoor areas – with a drip irrigation system by Absolutely Bushed Landscaping.