Topics: Lawn Tips, Lawn Watering

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Choosing the Best Irrigation System [Top 5 Sprinkler Types]

Posted by Dave Schwarm on Jun 18, 2020 8:08:34 PM
Dave Schwarm

In my 30 years of experience in the lawn care industry, a lot has changed. One thing that has remained the same is this: grass needs water and watering your lawn correctly will keep it healthy and green.

Irrigation systems have many benefits. They water your lawn evenly, are environmentally beneficial (less waste), encourage healthy plant growth, and offer both aesthetic and financial benefits.

Sprinkler systems in your lawn can help you out financially in two ways:

  • A healthy, green lawn can boost your home's value by up to 15%. 

  • Sprinklers can save you water and money by offering features like gauges and timers. These features ensure that your yard is getting the right amount of water and nothing more. 

 


Underground Irrigation System

Underground irrigation systems are the most effective way to water your lawn. They are designed for uniform coverage and using water efficiently.

The true beauty of an underground irrigation system is that it can be as simple as set it and forget it. They are great because they can be well hidden and they are automated.

Pro tip:  Set it to go off early in the morning when there is less of a chance for evaporation. This allows water to penetrate into the soil effectively, resulting in deeper root development.
Underground-Sprinkler
 

Pulsating Sprinkler on a Tripod

A pulsating sprinkler on a tripod is a type of above-ground sprinkler. They are set several feet off the ground and can cover large areas with one sprinkler. They can water areas up to 80 feet wide.

 
Pulsating Sprinkler on Tripod for Lawn Irrigation
 

Rain Train Sprinkler

The RainTrain sprinkler is unique in that it will move along a path while it sprays water. With lots of hose and a good strategy, the rain train can cover large portions of your lawn in one run.

 
How it works?

The RainTrain is a self-propelled tractor that, when placed on your hose, will follow the hose's path. It will slowly make its way back to the resting pad and shut off when complete.

 

Rain Train Sprinkler


Oscillating Sprinklers

Oscillating sprinklers spray water out in a fan like pattern that moves from left to right. They are great for covering square areas. They are not attached to the ground so are portable.

Oscillating sprinkler 

Hose and Sprayer Attachment

 The good old hose + nozzle offers you complete manual control. You can add a nozzle to your hose that allows a variety of settings anywhere from a mist to a strong, single stream.
 
Pro tip: On a nice day, we recommend hose in one hand, cool beverage in the other.

Bottom line:  If you want a good looking lawn that has a green color to it year round, proper irrigation is a must. I highly recommend talking to a local irrigation company about seeing if your lawn is right for an underground irrigation system.

This is one of the best investments I made as a homeowner early on. To find a good company, always remember to check those reviews. Read more in my article 8 Things to Know Before Hiring a Lawncare Company

If this article was useful to you, read some others similar to it:


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Since 2007, Green Meadow Lawn Care has provided homeowners throughout the greater Tolland, Connecticut area with premium fertilization programs, tick control, mosquito management, seeding & aeration and tree & shrub care. 

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