Don’t Spring a Leak: All About Irrigation Systems
Any way you cut it; spring is finally here! Astronomically, horticulturally, climatically, chronologically, the warm weather and impending summer have likely made you think about irrigation systems to keep your landscape green. Whether you already have an irrigation system or plan to install one, there is always more to learn about going with the flow– of irrigation, that is.
Types of Irrigation Systems
There are two major categories of irrigation systems, high flow, and low flow. These can then be separated into many different types of systems ranging from fixed sprayers, rotors, and impact systems in the high flow category to drip emitters and lines and micro spraying systems in the low flow category. Each system has its benefits where low flow systems can often be used for any part of the landscape except lawns, and high flow systems are usually best for large grassy areas. Low flow irrigation is generally most efficient where it is useable because it greatly reduces evaporation from the sun and wind.
Sustainable Irrigation and Landscaping
Often when people are planning and maintaining irrigation systems, the question of sustainability arises. Choosing a system that takes care of your landscape’s needs while also ensuring there is very little environmental impact is something a professional landscaping and irrigation service provider can help you with. In your conversation with your irrigation service, emphasizing energy efficiency and sustainability is the best way to come to a solution that works for you and the environment!
Other actions you can take to reduce the amount of water and energy required to irrigate your landscape is using native and drought resistant plants. Taking advantage of the natural properties of these plants in your landscape means that less water will be required to keep your property beautiful! This is a great money and water-saving tip to remember.
Irrigation Installation
The installation of an irrigation system does not have to be complicated. Though irrigation systems are typically rather complex, experienced service providers will perform all the hard work for you. Once you decide on a type of irrigation system, having a conversation with the professionals is the next step to getting the process started. Generally, the best time to install an irrigation system is the Fall as the ground temperature is most suitable and you can include new trees and plants in your landscape. However, irrigation systems can be installed at nearly any time of year should it be necessary.
Irrigation System Maintenance
If you’re a proud owner of an irrigation system or someone in the planning phase, understanding the maintenance requirements of your system is important. For typical systems, the minimum maintenance involves the springtime start-up and fall shutdown of the system which ensures water is not pooling and freezing in a damaging manner during the winter. Additionally, regular monitoring for pooling water or unusually dry spots is a good idea to ensure no components are leaky or broken.
Final Thoughts
Irrigation systems make it easy for you to have a green thumb, and there are plenty of options to choose from when installing a new system! If you are looking for a service that can plan an irrigation system for your property, professionally implement, and maintain the system, contact Bluegrass Landscape and Snow Management for a consultation!
