Four Main Types of Irrigation

What You’ll Learn:

In this informative article about different types of irrigation, we’ll be covering:

• The primary types of irrigation systems
• How to choose the best irrigation systems in South Florida for your property

Conserve Water and Cost with Irrigation

Irrigation systems offer an exceptionally effective method of watering a broad range of plants and trees, reducing water output considerably simply due to their increased efficiency. Many systems can conserve more than 50% of the amount of water required for manual watering, dramatically decreasing costs and usage.

When you consider the type of irrigation to install in your landscaping, there are four basic options available.

Four Main Types of Irrigation Systems

1. Surface irrigating

Ideal for landscapes with medium to fine soil textures, a surface irrigation system can use one of three methods: basin irrigation, furrow irrigation, and border irrigation. Properties with mild or regular slopes are well-suited to surface irrigation. However, one disadvantage to this method is the minimal filtration rate, leading to salt/mineral buildup in the soil.

2. Sprinkler irrigation

In sprinkler irrigation, a standard sprinkler system provides water to plants. A system of pipes supplies water to the spray heads, which then spray tiny droplets into the area. Although sprinkler irrigation helps any slope, the water distribution can sometimes become unpredictable in hot or windy weather. Also, it is typically the most expensive of irrigation methods and consumes a significant amount of energy.

3. Drip irrigation

Drip irrigation, also called micro-irrigation or trickle irrigation, does double duty to preserve both water and nutrients. Water is applied in the plants’ root zone, from a drip system either above or below the soil. One of the most significant advantages is the ability to customize water drip rates depending on the soil or plant type using individual emitters. When properly designed, installed, and operated, a drip irrigation system can be the most efficient method available – and result in a beautifully flourishing landscape.

4. Subsurface irrigation

A subsurface irrigation system is one of the most popular options, delivering water underneath the soil. If the water table is low, trickle or drip devices placed below the below can be used as a “back-up,” watering at the plants’ roots. Because the water is beneath the surface, this method decreases usage by avoiding evaporation. Depending on the property, setting up and maintaining subsurface irrigation systems can become costly.

Choosing the Best Type of Irrigation for Your Property

When it comes to selecting the type of irrigation system that is best suited to your property, there are a few factors to keep in mind:

• Soil type
• Water table
• Climate
• Slope
• Personal preferences

Proper water supply is vital to your outdoor area’s health and appearance, making high-quality irrigation systems and professional installation a worthwhile investment for business owners, commercial property landlords, and homeowners alike.

Plant Professionals: Experts in Irrigation in Miami, FL

Are you searching for professional landscaping in Miami, FL? Subpar work can damage your landscaping and leave you with an expensive mess on your hands, making choosing an experienced and skilled team especially important.

Plant Professionals has been serving South Florida for more than a decade, providing full-service landscape design, installation, and maintenance for clients in Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward, and Palm Beach counties. Our expertise and industry knowledge make us well-equipped to help you select the best options for Miami, taking your preferences and needs into consideration every step of the way.

Contact Plant Professionals to request a quote today.