A GUIDE FOR CREATING A GOOD DRIP IRRIGATION SYSTEM
A drip irrigation system is a good way to ensure that all crops are regularly watered and installing one is a relatively easy process. Most gardening centres stock the necessary materials needed and with this concise guide, gardeners will be able to run through the necessary steps, enabling the installation of an effective drip irrigation system.
Materials needed
• Drip tubing or hose
• Emitter stakes or inline emitters
• Connectors, stakes, and end caps
• A filter
• A pressure regulator
• Mainline tubing
• Scissors or a tubing cutter
• Stakes
• Shovel
Installation steps
1. Plan the layout
Sketch the design to indicate the mainline tubing and the areas that will require emitters. Decide on the placement of plants and where the drip system will run. Plan the layout for the mainline tubing by ensuring that it remains close to the plants.
2. Gather materials
Ensure that all necessary components are readily available.
3. Prepare the area
Clear the planting area of any weeds and debris and ensure that all of the emitters work effectively without any obstruction.
4. Install the mainline tubing
Lay the mainline tubing along the planned layout and if necessary, use stakes to secure the tubing in place.
5. Add a pressure regulator
Install a pressure regulator if the water supply has high pressure to prevent damage to the drip system.
6. Insert a filter
Attach a filter to prevent debris from clogging the emitters.
7. Connect emitters
Based on your plant needs, attach emitters to the tubing.
8. Connect stake emitters
If you are using stake-mounted emitters, insert them into the soil near the plant roots.
9. Cap the end
Close the end of the drip line with a cap to prevent water from leaking out.
10. Test the system
Turn on the water supply to check for leaks. Ensure that each plant is receiving adequate water and adjust emitter flow rates where necessary.
12. Provide maintenance
Monitor the drip irrigation system periodically, regularly checking filters and emitters for any clogging. Adjust the system based on seasonal changes making adjustments as and when necessary.
