Hi all, I am new to gardening and have a raised bed with some dwarf trees, veggies and large flowers. Hand watering is becoming a pain and I can't seem to get the formula right for how much and when to deliver water to my plants. I am thinking a drip will be the best system? What are the advantages and is it the best way to irrigate? Is is simple enough for me to do myself or am I best off hiring a gardener who can do the initial set up for me? Lastly, drip vs soaker hose? THANK YOU KINDLY FOR YOUR INPUT.
My husband purchased a drip hose system. It worked well for a year, but by the time the next year rolled around, critters had nibbled their way into various parts of the hose. Not very satisfactory. But we are surrounded by wildlife. Maybe this is not a problem where you live. We have returned to using soaker hoses. They work well in areas where the plantings are close together.
I just recently put out a soaker hose. I'm still trying to learn how to do all of this! I wish I had a neighbor who has been gardening for the past so many years. Lol!
Drip lines are a good way to direct the water where you want it to go. It prevents waste and helps keep the leaves dry. There are kits out there that are fairly easy to assemble and install. I've used drips for many years and never had problems with critters as someone else mentioned. You will have to check and make sure all of the drippers are actually working properly because they can get clogged.I suggest you research some more and give it a shot. Forgot to mention that I prefer the drip system over the soaker hose. Mostly because I feel like the soaker puts water in places that it's not needed, but I would still use a soaker if I had to. moderator's note: removed double posting see point 3.6 of usage rules
