Drip irrigation refers to a connected network of pipes, tubing, valves, and emitters that is used to create a slow moving watering system for plants. This type of irrigation is both water and energy efficient, and the flexible tubing allows easy access to the plants regardless of the landscape or layout. The tube can be bent and conformed to reach the roots of all types of planting applications like rows of vegetables, rose gardens and hanging plants.Drip Irrigation Valves
Your drip irrigation system will require valves. Most systems will have at least two including an everyday control valve and an emergency shut-off valve. The emergency valve will be the one installed closest to the pipe being used for the irrigation; this is needed to prevent you from having to turn off the water supply to your entire house or building because the irrigation system failed and needs repair. Many people use gate valves as their emergency valves because they are readily available and economical, but they tend to wear out faster than a ball valve or disk valve. The zone control valves are used to separate areas of drip tubes especially if they service different types of plants with different needs. This way, the main line can remain open while one zone is turned off.Micro Sprinkler Irrigation
Micro sprinkler irrigation equipment includes low pressure misters or sprays, which delivers frequent but small quantities of water consistently. This is different from traditional sprinklers that deliver larger amounts of water at very high pressures for a specific amount of time. These micro sprinklers are often attached to the tubing at various intervals throughout the irrigation area.Drip Irrigation Tubing
Drip irrigation tubing, stakes, and clamps are possibly the most important parts of the irrigation system. The drip tube is used to deliver the water to the plant roots through the use of adequately placed emitters, and the stakes and clamps helps to keep it in place. This allows for more precise irrigation as each plant receives a consistent water supply, which is essential in arid climates. This method is more efficient than traditional irrigation and it also conserves more water.Drip Irrigation Emitters
The emitters, also called drippers are used to deliver a pre-calculated amount of water directly to the root of each plant. However, not all emitters are created equal. Closely spaced plants do better with micro sprinkler emitter systems, but plants that are wider apart, do best with standard drip emitters.