Drip Irrigation for Raised Bed Planters
Many gardeners turn to raised bed planters as an alternative to the traditional garden plot of tilled soil. The change to raised planters requires rethinking irrigation as well. Furrow irrigation is not practical in raised beds and sprinklers waste a lot of water. The invention of flexible polyethylene pipe in the 1950’s made possible the development of inexpensive and durable drip irrigation systems, the perfect solution for raised bed gardening. Does this Spark an idea?
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Why Drip Irrigation?
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Drip irrigation offers many benefits. The systems are cost-effective and simple to install and maintain. Water is delivered directly to the root zone, reducing water use and erosion, and because the plant leaves stay dry, they are less susceptible to fungal diseases. Watering only the desired plants also reduces the need for weeding. By using an automated timer, the system delivers consistent irrigation to your plants and you won’t forget to water. Drip irrigation components are available at most garden supply stores.
Connecting to the Water Source
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If your water source cannot be dedicated to the drip line, installing a Y-fitting with shut off valves at the outlet allows you to draw water for other uses without disconnecting your irrigation system. Connect an electronic timer, a backflow prevention device, an in-line water filter and a pressure regulator to your water source. Use a hose adapter to connect the main supply line pipe to these fittings.
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Main Supply Line
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Polyethylene drip line pipe comes in one-half or five-eighths inch diameter. The smaller diameter is adequate to irrigate up to 1,500 square feet at one time. Use a hose end fitting or clamp to close the end of the line. A hose end with removable cap makes it easier to flush the line each spring before using. You may also need tee or elbow connectors depending on how you configure the line. Use U-shaped wire pins to secure the supply line to the ground.
Connecting Each Planter Box
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Purchase one-quarter inch drip line tubing along with a selection of connectors and tees. This tubing carries water from the supply line to your planter beds and then to the plants through emitters. You can use a 16-penny nail or buy a special hole punch for connecting the one-quarter inch line to the supply line. Adding a shut-off valve in the one-quarter inch line at each planter box allows you to stop irrigation to planters that are not in use.
Choosing Emitters
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Individual drip emitters are best for single plants such as tomatoes. Sprayers work well for dense crops like lettuce or onions where wetting the leaves doesn’t matter. One-quarter inch tubing with built-in drippers every 6 or 12 inches or soaker lines made of porous rubber are perfect for rows of plants. Having a selection of drippers, sprayers and drip lines allows you to easily adapt the irrigation to specific plant needs and change them seasonally as needed.
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References
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