Don Vandervort, Head Homeboy, has written more than 30 DIY home improvement books, been a segment host on HGTV, served as MSN.com's home improvement expert and written countless magazine articles.
A drip irrigation system uses flexible polyethylene tubing to direct flow to emitters or small sprayers that gradually water a plant’s roots. Polyethylene tubing is used because it is resistant to UV damage and because fittings are easily attached to it.
In addition to tubing, each circuit needs fittings, watering devices, a head assembly, a filter to prevent the small sprayers from clogging, a fertilizer injector if desired, and a pressure regulator if needed. Most drip systems work best with very low water pressure (15 to 30 pounds per square inch); a pressure regulator will reduce the water’s pressure if it is too high.
A single circuit can be run from a head assembly connected to an outdoor faucet, or multiple circuits can be attached to separate control valves to customize watering for different areas. Drip systems can also be attached to timers, which can control multiple circuits.
Drip-system kits are a great way to get started as they come with all the parts and tools you’ll need. Once you have the main line assembled, you can add more tubing and emitters as your watering needs change.
