Adding a drip irrigation system to your urban planter boxes is an excellent way to conserve water and ensure your plants receive consistent, deep watering. This project is surprisingly straightforward and can be completed in an afternoon.
First, gather your materials. You will need a main supply tube, smaller feeder/dripper lines, pressure regulators, a backflow preventer, emitters (drippers), a filter, a battery-operated timer, and connectors. A starter kit often contains these components. Ensure you have a way to connect the system to your outdoor faucet.
Start by attaching the system to your water source. Connect the timer to the faucet first. Then, attach the backflow preventer, followed by the pressure regulator and the filter. This setup protects your system and ensures it operates at the correct pressure.
Next, lay the main supply tube along the back or side of your planter boxes. Use stakes to secure it in place. For each planter box, punch a hole into the main tube and attach a connector for a feeder line. Run this smaller tube along the plants inside the box.
Now, add the emitters. Punch holes into the feeder lines directly at the base of each plant and insert an emitter. Choose an emitter flow rate (e.g., 1 GPH) based on your plants' water needs. For rows of plants like vegetables, you can use pre-made dripline that has emitters built-in at regular intervals.
Finally, close the end of all the main and feeder lines with end caps or flush-out fittings. Turn on the system and run it. Check for any leaks and ensure water is dripping steadily from each emitter. Program your timer to water in the early morning for maximum efficiency, adjusting the frequency and duration based on your climate and plant types. This automated system will save you time and help your urban garden thrive.