ardeners and greenhouse owners often struggle when it comes to taking time out for a holiday. Keeping containers, greenhouses and newly purchased plants well watered in times of heat and drought is a worry. There are some gardeners who only venture abroad in winter and others who will never leave their precious plants at all.
Those who have the benefit of a willing and able neighbour know they are worth their weight in gold. But what if you haven't got a reliable helper nearby?
Technology and innovation have brought Micro-irrigation or drip watering systems within the reach of most households. They make perfect sense for the greenhouse owner and can actually save you hours of watering time, even when you are not away, and may even save your plants too.
A quick look in the garden centre can leave you confused by all the parts and accessories on offer. If you are not technically minded, the best place to start is with a starter kit, which can be expanded later to suit your needs. There are several different types available, such as a greenhouse kit for small greenhouses. Most micro irrigation kits require an outside tap, which must of course be fitted with a double check valve to avoid backflow into the mains water. You may also need a water meter as many of the water companies regard these systems as sprinklers, even though they use a fraction of the volume of water compared to a sprinkler. So if in doubt check.
Hints and Tips
*Choose a system to suit your needs. Most companies offer starter kits for Greenhouses and/or terraces. Each takes a few hours to set up correctly but once in place will save you hours of watering. You do not have to have a timer, you can connect the system to the water supply and operate the flow manually, but if you want an automatic system that will water while you are away then a timer is essential. Some kits come complete with a timer. Most systems are expandable and parts can be bought in additional smaller packs.
*The tubes and pipes that transport the water are made of tough plastics that can be hard to push onto the fittings. Have a jug of boiling water handy and soak the tube ends in hot water for a few minutes, it softens them and makes connecting the system much easier. Take care not to scald yourself though.
* Most kits can be used in a variety of areas but bear in mind that if you want to operate misters and sprayer jets rather than the drippers you will need to use the wide 1/2-inch pipe to provide enough water pressure.
* The timers need a power supply usually a battery or power supply, so make sure you have everything you need before you embark on installation.
* It's a good idea to map out the system before you start to cut the pipes and connect the fittings. Once in situ it is not easy to pull apart or to change your mind, although most systems can be adjusted, added to or expanded using readily available additional part
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