Micro Irrigation Basics
Micro irrigation is, by definition, the use of small devices, called emitters, with relatively low flow rates and operating pressures. The devices may be further sub classified as:
-
Drippers
-
Micro sprays
-
Mini-sprinklers
Their use in the landscape irrigation system is best suited to bed areas.
The selection of device largely depends on the plant material being irrigated. Individual perennial shrubs are most effectively irrigated using drippers with either a fixed flow rate or variable flow rate. Variable flow rate drippers are particularly effective because the device can be used for a variety of plant materials, sizes, and water requirements in the same zone.
If the bed area is relatively large or densely planted, it is best to consider using micro sprays or mini sprinklers.
- Micro sprays come in a variety of distribution patterns: 90°, 180°, 340°, and a 30-30° pattern (called a strip spray). The flow rate for all devices with the same orifice size is equivalent with radii of four to eight feet. They are typically spaced five to six feet apart in the bed.
- Mini-sprinklers cover a 360° circle with diameters varying from 16 to 26 feet depending on the nozzle and pressure. All of the devices are typically connected to a PE pipe (1/2" - 1" diameter) by punching a whole in the tube near where the device will be placed. The device is then connected to the PE pipe with smaller diameter tubing (called spaghetti). Operating pressures for the systems should be regulated to 30 psi or less and appropriate filtration should be installed at the inlet to each zone.
Micro irrigation is indeed user-friendly and can be installed by almost anyone. If done correctly, it will provide hours of relief from the task of manually irrigating your flowerbeds. We recommend that you start with a small area. Buy an assortment of products, and go to work. You'll choose the products that you like the best.
A general observation after years of selling this equipment is that women prefer to see the foliage wet, while men seem to prefer drippers. Drippers are more efficient and eliminate evaporative loss, but either of these products will do the job effectively.
A common question is "Can I put micro zones on the same controller as my turf zones?" The answer is definitely. In fact we encourage our customers to utilize micro irrigation in their bed areas instead of traditional irrigation because it is a more of effective way to irrigate these areas. Micro zones must not be run at the same time as turf zones and will generally need to be run longer because the precipitation rates or comparatively low.
Applications:
|
