When you think of landscape irrigation, a hose or sprinkler quickly comes to mind. However, there are many more options for landscape irrigation that accommodate domestic and commercial landscaping. Whether you are practicing domestic or commercial landscaping, the design is incomplete without a functional irrigation system. The options available come bearing many benefits; you only have to pick the best irrigation system.
The better options below depend on various factors: climate, soil, terrain, plantings, and surface to cover; a good understanding of these factors helps determine the best irrigation system for domestic or commercial landscaping.
Surface Irrigation
There are different forms of surface irrigation; hoses or watering cans are the forms relevant to landscaping. Surface irrigation system works best for domestic landscaping, mainly by homeowners. Surface irrigation is most effective for small parcels of land, for example, a yard or lawn. This method uses a hose or watering to apply water to the surface and allow it to seep into the soil. Although surface irrigation is very popular, it is also labor intensive and encourages water-logging where the lawn surface is uneven.
Benefits of Surface Irrigation
- It is the easiest and cheapest landscape irrigation system. You don’t need special or high-tech equipment for this landscape irrigation system.
- Surface irrigation allows for the best utilization of rainwater. Domestic landscaping can benefit from rainwater during the rainy season, especially if your lawn design allows for natural water flow.
- The system is suitable for supplemental watering. If there is a need for additional plant watering on your lawn, surface irrigation is the easiest way.
Sprinkler Irrigation
Sprinkler irrigation is the most popular landscaping system for residential and commercial landscaping purposes. Unlike drip irrigation, you manage hydration overhead. The system utilizes sprinklers installed at different points on the lawn to sprinkle water on plants and grass in the landscape. The water supply is uniform depending on the sprinkler heads’ water pressure and nozzle size. The sprinkler irrigation system effectively covers more ground from residential yards to commercial landscapes.
The sprinkler irrigation system is best effective in the early morning to reduce water loss by evaporation. If you live in an area that gets very warm in the afternoon and early evening, you will want to consider sprinkler irrigation.
The benefits of sprinkler irrigation include the following:
- Even distribution of water across the lawn or commercial landscape. You supply the water overhead, similar to rainfall, allowing for a consistent water supply.
- The system is suitable for varying sizes of land. Both domestic and commercial landscapes can use this system to maintain a healthy and beautiful landscape throughout the year.
- Sprinkler irrigation is useful anywhere. This irrigation system is not limited to flat surfaces. Sprinklers can supply water in sloppy areas as long as there is good water pressure.
Drip Irrigation
Also known as trickle irrigation, the drip irrigation system is popular for conserving water. Both commercial and domestic landscapers can install and use this ideal landscape irrigation system. The system utilizes small pipes with tiny holes to trickle water slowly to the plant base, conserving water. Drip irrigation is best for non-turf areas such as perennial gardens, flowerbeds, and ground cover. With recent technological advancements, you can modify the drip irrigation system further to suit specific soil types and plant needs. You can also set watering frequency. These features almost eliminate labor; you will still need to do maintenance every time. This may be the most environmentally friendly irrigation method.
Perks of Drip Irrigation System
- The water supply mechanism is advantageous when it comes to conserving water. It is ideal for water conservation. Using less water also reduces the amount of water lost by evaporation.
- Drip irrigation is Less-labor intensive. This irrigation system automates landscape irrigation, thus eliminating the need for extra labor.
- Drip irrigation discourages weed growth. Since the pipes deliver water only where needed, it’s hard to water unintended areas. As a result, no water supply supports the growth and development of any weeds.
Soak Hoses
Soak hoses work the same way as drip irrigation. Landscapers connect several hoses with small cut holes to cover a large surface. While installing, the landscaper can bury the tube beneath mulch or laid on the ground surface. Although not as efficient and precise as drip irrigation, the water delivery method and amount are essentially the same. However, soak hose irrigation is cheaper to install and maintain than drip irrigation for landscaping. For commercial landscaping purposes, however, soak hoses may not be the best option because of the ground surface to be covered. Precision is paramount for commercial landscaping.
Advantages of Soak Hoses
- Soak hose irrigation system minimizes water contact with leaves, fruits, and stems and, as a result, prevents fungal disease.
- Excellent at reducing water runoff. Direct water delivery to the intended target minimizes the amount of water running off, especially on uneven ground.
- The on-target water delivery mechanism reduces weed growth.
- The system is highly efficient and saves a lot of water.
- The soak hose irrigation method requires minimal labor.
- This landscape irrigation system has the necessary hoses, making it cheap to install and maintain.
Automatic Irrigation
The intent behind landscape irrigation is to keep it green all year round. Commercial landscaping may require more water and labor depending on plantings and the land’s size. An automatic irrigation system is the best option for commercial landscape irrigation. It entails the use of technology to automate the landscape irrigation process. Special equipment controls the amount of water, frequency, and irrigating times. The special equipment cuts down on the need for excess labor and water wastage. Drip and sprinkler irrigation are suitable systems for automatic irrigation when doing commercial landscaping.
Due to financial implications, automatic irrigation is unsuitable for domestic landscaping.
In addition, expert advice on landscape irrigation systems can and will go a long way in making a choice. Attendants at your local landscaping store can also help you find the best irrigation system to complete your landscape design. Need help with irrigation systems? Contact Cortada Landscape today.