Drip irrigation is usually the first choice for vegetable gardens. Trickle drip irrigation systems provide slow and steady water to the roots where each plant needs it most, preventing fungal diseases and weeds. It can save you water because you measure your water usage at fixed times you set yourself, and it virtually eliminates water loss due to over-spraying and evaporation. It is also easier to install and more flexible than an underground sprinkler system; once in place, it requires less manual operation time during watering—a plus for those with larger gardens. Using a trickle drip irrigation system in your vegetable garden or plant flowerbed saves time and water, and a little patience now will pay off later.
Anti-siphon device or vacuum breaker attached to the water source, usually an outdoor faucet, though you can use an in-ground sprinkler anti-siphon valve. Anti-siphon devices prevent water from entering your home's plumbing system and are usually required by regulations.
One or more filters to prevent clogging of the very small openings in the trickle drip irrigation system. Choose a larger Y or T filter for the entire system or a smaller in-line filter.
Pressure regulators in the trickle drip irrigation system prevent water pressure from being too high to avoid rupturing the drip tubing.
Swivel adapters, also called thread-to-pipe compression adapters, are used to connect larger diameter pipes to smaller diameter drip tubing.
Drip tubing for the water line leading to the garden, usually made of polyethylene.
Fittings for connecting various pipe pieces. These can be straight connectors, elbow connectors, T-connectors, and four-way connectors.
Assembly tools, including punches, stakes, plugs, and end caps or clamps.
Start from the water source, which for a trickle drip irrigation system is an outdoor faucet. Before starting, ensure that the polyethylene tubing is heated and softened to avoid kinks and difficulty in bending it to desired positions.
The head assembly includes all components between the faucet and the tubing itself. Start with the timer, if needed, then add the anti-siphon device, fertilizer injector (if using), main filter, pressure regulator, and swivel adapter.
Insert the main line tubing into the swivel adapter. Lay out the main line from the faucet to the garden, unrolling as you go along, leaving some slack for adjustments. Stake it periodically to hold it in place.
Add branch lines past individual plants and any emitter lines. Place the end of the branch lines in position, just beside (slightly overlapping) the main line tubing. Continue staking branch lines, keeping them loose to accommodate adjustments.
Cut the main line to insert the branch lines. You can use a special tool, pruners, or a sharp knife. Insert fittings into the drip tubing to form connections. Use a combination of pushing and twisting lightly and ensure any barbed fittings are fully covered. Do not force anything. If needed, further soften the tubing with hot water (not soap or oil).
Once everything is laid out and connected, run water through the trickle drip irrigation system to flush it. When the water runs clear, turn off the water and seal the ends of the tubing with end caps or clamps.
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