Installation of in-ground irrigation systems to promote a healthy landscape.
The start of any good irrigation system is a solid plan.
Many factors must be considered before designing a workable solution for your irrigation needs. These include:
- soil type
- soil chemistry
- slope
- root depth
- variety of plants
- micro-climates
- weather conditions
- water sources
- water chemistry
- efficiency
- maintenance
- and compliance with state and local codes.
Now, whether you hire a landscaping professional to plan and install your unique solution, or plan to go the DIY route, at the very least we urge you to have a consultation with a licensed and insured professional about your design. It can save you a lot of time, money, and aggravation.
If your property is on the large side, an efficient, timer controlled irrigation system is the way to go. Here, in the Pacific Northwest and in Douglas County, summer months obviously require more water than winter months. Diligent adjustments of timers are essential. Make appropriate adjustments, or instruct your landscape professional to do so.
It will take some research to draw up a good plan. Ask yourself these 3 questions:
- What soil am I working with? Soil tests can be done quickly and inexpensively these days. The resulting report will tell you every conceivable thing you could ever want to know about your soil: pH level, amount of organic particulate matter, composition, mineral levels.
- What plants are on my property, and what are their water needs? It wouldn’t do for you to be watering a pine tree with a slow drip system, anymore than it would be to water geraniums with a high pressure sprinkler. Know your landscape.
- Does my plan violate any local, or state provisions? In some areas, even HOA’s will want to see your proposal, before you implement it.
Planning Your Sprinkling System
Planning your system can seem like a daunting chore, but if it is done correctly, the first time, it will make your life a lot easier, and your landscape a lot healthier. We found a really helpful tool for the DIYers out there from Gardena called The myGarden sprinklersystem planner. You can check that out here.
If you have an irrigation project that seems too big to manage, or you’d like to consult landscape professionals, feel free to give us a call or request a free estimate on your project.
This post was last updated on 3/31/23.