Irrigation Systems is an essential part of gardening as plants need water to survive, and people depend on irrigation to keep their gardens productive and build up their lawns. An irrigation system can be a source of frustration and confusion for many people because they are unaware of how it works. There are a few basics about irrigation methods that anyone with an installed irrigation practice or someone planning to install must know.
Different types of irrigation
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Surface Irrigation
The surface irrigation method relies on gravity to spread the water in the fields or gardens. It is the most affordable type of irrigation technique that allows water to flow naturally due to the shape of the land.
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Sprinkler Irrigation
The sprinkler irrigation technique is the most common of all types. It is popular due to its versatility, as one can use it in various environments. It supplies water overhead of plants and is appropriate for use in different environmental conditions.
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Drip Irrigation
The drip irrigation technique is the complete opposite of sprinkler irrigation because of the way it supplies water to plants. Instead of watering the plants and landscaping overhead, it provides water directly to the plants’ roots through irrigation lines. It is popular because it is practical, conserves water, and saves time and money.
Irrigation laws
Irrigation laws exist. Yes, you heard it right. Some states have irrigation laws, and those states are relatively dry. The irrigation law does not permit you the irrigation on personal property like gardens and lawns. Some states also allow you to water whenever you want. There are laws for the collection of rainwater and irrigation purposes as well.
Maintenance of Irrigation systems
Your irrigation systems need regular maintenance to keep them working correctly. After installation, keep a check on the irrigation system. Also, regularly check for hoses and piping to ensure they have not lost any integrity. Make sure the pumps and water access are working in good condition. Perform regular backflow tests to check if the outside water that may be contaminated is not washing back into your drinking water.
Benefits of Irrigation
Irrigation can benefit you in several ways, and a professionally installed system is a complete luxury. Read on below to know some of the benefits;
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Convenience
You do not have to worry about watering your plants with irrigation systems. Most people do not have the time to water the plants and landscaping, so the role of irrigation methods comes. Without a proper irrigation technique, your plants can suffer. You also need to check which plant requires what irrigation system. For example, drip irrigation is best for plants like boxwood winter.
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Reduced risk of over, under, and uneven watering
When you install an irrigation technique in your fields or garden, you do not have to worry about underwatering or overwatering. Irrigation techniques will provide your plants with an adequate amount of water it needs to grow. Before the system is installed in the fields, the professionals will plan the placement of underground pipes to promote coverage and ensure that all your lands are covered with water.
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Preserves soil nutrients
When you water your plants manually, you are more likely to kill the nutritional value of the plant as the excess water can carry the nutrients away. An Irrigation system helps maintain the soil’s moisture and keep your plants healthy. Dry soil can also increase the risk of root diseases in plants.
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Reduces weeds and plant diseases
An irrigation technique will help you to target a specific part of your land. Fungal diseases like boxwood blight are common in plants like boxwood winter, so choose the irrigation system according to the plant requirements. For example, drip irrigation delivers water directly to the plants’ roots, which helps you deprive the weeds and eventually kill them. On the other hand, a sprinkler system helps to reduce plant diseases and fungi. While watering your plants manually, you may leave water droplets on the leaves, creating an ideal growing condition for fungi. The possibility of standing water on the leaves is reduced with the help of an irrigation technique.
