Do you have a flower bed that could use some TLC? If so, which watering method is right for you? There are three main types of watering methods: sprays, drip, and Xerigation. Each one has its own unique benefits, so it can be tough to decide which one is best for your needs.
In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of each watering method so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for your flower bed.
Watering Methods
Sprays, also known as sprinklers, are among the most common methods for watering lawns and flower beds. With a spray or sprinkler system, you can control the spread of water more efficiently. Sprays have underground pipes with heads that are visible above ground. Automatic sprinklers will activate on a set schedule or when needed most, like during very dry, hot weather. Spray systems are best used to water flowers that are spread out across a large area.
Drip systems use an underground pipe to deliver water directly to plant roots. Drip irrigation is usually low to the ground using a series of long plastic pipes. The lack of runoff and evaporation makes this type super efficient. Openings in the pipes allow water to drip out at regular intervals to feed your flowers. Drip systems are best used for flower and vegetable gardens with little space between the plants.
Xerigation is a particular type of watering method made specifically for low-volume irrigation systems. It works by injecting water directly onto and into the soil with a targeted approach, which then spreads to the roots of plants through capillary action. These are best used for plants with deep roots that need extra watering attention.
Now that we’ve covered the basics let’s take a closer look at each watering method.
Benefits and Limitations of Watering Types
Each watering type has a list of benefits and limitations. It’s important to weigh both sides of each type to help determine which is best for your outdoor space.
Pros of Sprays
Sprays are the most common type of irrigation system because they’re easy to set up and use. They provide even watering, which is important for ensuring that your plants get the amount of water they need to stay healthy.
Sprays are good for large areas and can cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time. They work well with plants that have shallow roots because their water is delivered to the surface, where it can be absorbed quickly by small root systems (such as grasses).
Cons of Sprays
Sprays are not good for plants with deep root systems because they only deliver water at or near the surface. They are not efficient when used on hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt because most of the water is lost through evaporation and runoff before it ever reaches plants’ roots that need to be watered.
Sprays are not ideal for areas with large amounts of wind because they can cause water to blow away from plants and onto sidewalks or roads. In extreme cases, it can even lead to flooding in your yard.
Pros of Drip Systems
Drip systems are the most efficient way to water plants, as they deliver water directly to plant roots using tiny holes in underground pipes. This method is good for areas with deep root systems, as it provides a steady stream of water directly to the roots.
Drip systems are also good for plants that need a lot of water, as they can be adjusted to deliver more or less water depending on the needs of the plant. They don’t create runoff and are less likely to cause flooding than sprays.
If your flowers are close together in rows or clusters, drip systems are an efficient way to keep them watered. Drips can be the most convenient method for irrigating flower beds, rows of vegetables, and even shrubs and trees, especially when you’re on vacation.
Cons of Drip Systems
Drip systems are not as efficient at covering large areas of the ground because they deliver water directly to plant roots. This can be difficult when there is a lot of space between plants, as the water will not reach all of the roots.
Drip systems also require more maintenance than sprays because their tiny holes can get clogged with dirt over time. This is especially true if the soil in your area is sandy or full of clay particles, like many soils are here in Indiana. Using a professional service like Innovative Irrigation can help prevent this with regular servicing.
Pros of Xerigation Systems
Xerigation is a brand name for the drip system designed by a company called Rain Bird. Just like other drip systems, Xerigation systems deliver water directly at or near plant roots for a more targeted watering approach. Its unique design provides water both underground and at the plant roots for optimal plant growth.
Xerigation systems are also good for areas with deep root systems because their underground pipes have tiny holes that release just enough water at a steady rate over time; this method is known as capillary action, and it allows roots access to moisture over an extended period of time.
Cons of Xerigation Systems
Xerigation systems can be more expensive than other types of irrigation methods. They also require more maintenance than other types of irrigation methods because their tiny holes can get clogged with dirt over time.
Find A Professional to Help You With Your Irrigation Needs
Are you unsure which type of irrigation system is best for your flower beds? If so, contact us today to schedule an appointment with our team. We’ll help you determine the most effective way to water your plants while saving time and money.
Get started with the best watering method for your outdoor space with Innovative Irrigation.