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Drip irrigation for pots
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Posted by Madison414 z4 Wis (My Page) on Thu, Feb 10, 05 at 9:35
| I was wondering how many of you have set up an irrigation system for your plants? Was it difficult to do? About how much money does it cost to set one up? I live in a second floor flat of an old house, but could easy run a hose up from the spicket on the first floor (We share the spicket, but the boys down there only occasionally use for washing thier cars). I tend to have about 40-60 containers on my balcony and watering can get to be a bit much. I think both I and my plants would do better with a little help in watering. Any suggestions on systems to use would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Lisa |
Follow-Up Postings:
RE: Drip irrigation for pots
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| The tubing system is wonderful. I used two separate lines. One was made totally of 1/4", it watered about 35 small pots (the main line ran across a 24' deck to where it split off for a three tiered plant stand). The other had the 1/4" tubes coming off a 1/2" tube that ran 48 feet. I only had a few problems with clogging on the setup with the 1/2", none on the all 1/4". Due to water pressue issues around here, it worked best during off-peak hours. You might have to look pretty hard to find the 1/2 gal. and 1/4 gal. per hour drippers. Or you can just water for a shorter period of time.
Most definitely worth the money and time to set it up. Be careful with the emitters and they'll last at least a few years. |
RE: Drip irrigation for pots
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Yes... drip irrigation is the best thing going... freeing up time for other tasks as well as enjoyment of a well watered garden.. I've instaled a number of systems for friends and clients... and all have so loved it after the watering by hand.. and it frees you up for a few days away with no concerns..
put a multi hook up manafold on the water below... and each hose can be controled seperately..
a small battery operated valve/timmer to manage the times of the flow.. I water a few times a day.. for a few minutes..maybe 20 minute cycles... don't water late as it promotes rot and fungus attacks.. I usually water 5PM or so as the latest..now all you need is the tubeing and emitters... after assembly it is a balanceing act... time vs number and size of emitters. and tuneing i t is a few weeks to get flow inline with time watered..
You'll be so glad you did,,, anyparticular questions and we'll be here to help... Gordon |
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