How to Install Drip Irrigation

Select the source from which you will supply water to the plants. This will ensure a steady flow of water throughout the entire system and make setting up your drip irrigation system easier. 

Measure the distance between your plants to determine how much hose you’ll need to cover your garden.

For proper water distribution, place emitters every 12 inches in sandy soil like Florida sand, 18 inches in loamy soil like mollisol, and 24 inches in clay soil like marshy clay. The spacing helps to keep the water flow even.

Here’s how you can easily assemble the hoses for a smooth drip system installation.

1: Add a Backflow Preventer Valve

Attach a backflow preventer valve to your outdoor faucet. This keeps contaminated water from flowing back into your drinking water supply.

2: Connect the Hose Adapter

Making sure the connection to hook up a hose adapter to the valve matches the size of your system's main line is important. 

3: Run the Main Line

Connect the main line to the backflow preventer. This main line feeds water to all your hoses, keeping the plants well-watered. 

Make sure you follow these 3 easy steps to install tees as a part of your drip system installation. 

1: Place a Tee in the Main Line

Use a pipe cutter to make a clean cut at the desired location. Insert a tee for each branch line that needs to extend through your garden to multiple areas. Identify where to create branch lines in the main irrigation line. 

2: Cut Lines for Each Branch

Cut individual lines long enough to reach from the main hose to each tee, allowing water to spread throughout the entire garden.

3: Secure Tees with Band Clamps

After positioning all tees, use band clamps to attach the tees and lines securely. Place the band clamp around the joint where the tee meets the line and tighten it with a screwdriver. To ensure your system stays leak-proof.

Use an emitter tool to punch holes in the hose where you want water to be distributed. Place emitters next to each plant’s roots, making sure they’re within a foot of the plant. Setting up drip irrigation with emitters ensures precise water distribution. Attach the feeder lines to the emitters, cap off the ends, and secure them.