When the black hoses of drip irrigation systems are left exposed to the sun, they can heat up the water and basically cook the plants roots. I have replaced many hoses that were chewed on by rabbits. Hoses that are exposed can be damaged by rabbits, pets, children, or gardening tools. These hoses can get clogged by debris, salt build up, and algae, so if they are covered and hidden by mulch, it’s hard to check if they are running properly and fix any clogs. However, these drip irrigation systems still water every plant the same, regardless of individual needs.ĭrip irrigation can also be an unsightly mess of hoses and tubes running throughout the garden. Wet foliage can cause pest and fungal problems, like black spot and powdery mildew.ĭrip irrigation systems water individual plants directly at their root zone, eliminating a lot of fungal issues and wasted water. Also, sprinklers often get more water on the foliage than in the root zone. Turf grasses have different root structures and watering needs than larger plants.
However, sprinklers don’t consider individual plant watering needs for example, the sprinkler that keeps your lawn lush and green is probably not providing trees and shrubs in the area with the deep watering they need to develop strong, deep roots. Sprinkler or drip irrigation systems allow you to save time by watering large areas of plants all at once. Most of us just don’t have the time for this slow, thorough watering process. You can give a dry, wilting plant extra water or skip a plant that prefers to stay on the dryer side. By hand watering, you are forced to get up close to each plant therefore, you’re able to adjust each plant’s watering to its specific need. Whether in a garden center or a home landscape, hand watering each individual plant based on its needs that day is probably the best way to water. Continue reading to learn more about drip irrigation problems and solutions.
While this may sound like a huge part of my work load was eliminated, drip irrigation has its own set of challenges and drawbacks.
Then four years ago, I started working for a landscape company/garden center with a drip irrigation system that waters all the tree and shrubs. Yes, it really is as time consuming as it sounds. A plant’s main need is water, especially container stock, which can dry out quickly.įor many years, along with co-workers, I would water each individual plant with a hose and rain wand.
Water drift irrigation full#
When asked what I do for a living, I sometimes joke and say, “I’m Mother Nature at a garden center.” While I do many things at work, like designing landscapes and displays and working with customers, perhaps the most important thing I do is making sure every plant we have in stock has everything it needs to grow to its full potential. Having worked in landscape design, installation, and plant sales for many years, I have watered many, many plants.
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