How to make a simple drip irrigation in the garden. Drip irrigation: step-by-step installation of a do-it-yourself system from ready-made materials, plastic bottles (Photo & Video). How to make drip irrigation with your own hands from plastic pipes and hoses
A feature of the drip irrigation system is that moisture supplied through a special polymer tape or droppers is delivered directly to the root system of plants. Due to this, the overall water consumption is reduced and at the same time crop yields are increased. In addition, drip irrigation does not lead to waterlogging of the soil and reduces the likelihood of weeds - they do not receive enough moisture.
It is not difficult to make such a system in your personal plot. This article will provide you with detailed step by step instructions on the design and arrangement of drip irrigation using polypropylene pipes.
Compared to conventional metal pipes, polypropylene products have a set of advantages that make them a good choice for installing a drip irrigation system in your garden.
It is worth highlighting the following advantages of PP pipes:
- light weight;
- cheapness;
- ease of installation;
- lack of condensate;
- almost complete absence of deposits on the inner walls;
- service life is about 50 years.
In order to standardize the characteristics, all polypropylene pipes are labeled, dividing them into four groups.
- PN10 - pipes designed only for cold water(up to +45 degrees) and only at pressures up to 10 atmospheres. Due to relatively weak characteristics, they are rare.
- PN16 - pipes designed to operate at pressures up to 16 atmospheres and temperatures up to +60 degrees. Suitable for drip irrigation system.
- PN20 - the maximum working pressure is 20 atmospheres, withstand temperatures up to +95 degrees.
- PN25 - in terms of permissible temperature, they are similar to the previous type, the pressure in them can reach up to 25 atmospheres. They are supplied with reinforced layers that increase the strength of the pipe.
In drip irrigation lines, the working pressure does not exceed 2-3 atmospheres, and the water temperature is equal to or lower than the ambient temperature. Therefore, polypropylene pipes PN10 and PN16 can be used here. The use of PN20 and PN25 is acceptable, but their characteristics are redundant for such a system.
Prices for polypropylene pipes
polypropylene pipes
Do-it-yourself drip irrigation - drawing up a plan
This system consists of several elements, let's get acquainted with the features of each of them.
- Water tank. On the one hand, it is connected to drip irrigation pipes, on the other hand, to the water supply from which it is replenished. Necessary for storing water and heating it under sunlight to a temperature close to that of air. The presence of a container is mandatory, since when connecting the drip irrigation lines directly to the water supply, the moisture supplied to the plants will not have time to warm up and will be too cold. As a result, agricultural crops will experience “stress”, which will affect their condition and yield.
The design of drip irrigation for a greenhouse or garden plot is divided into several steps, performed sequentially.
Step 1. Determine the area of the site for which it is necessary to equip drip irrigation. Take measurements, calculate the number and length of the beds, the distance between them, as well as the number of plants on each of them.
Step 2 Calculate the amount of water needed to irrigate all crops in the area. On average, one square meter requires from 15 to 30 liters of water per day. Calculate more accurate values using the table below.
Table number 1. daily requirement some agricultural crops in water.
Keep in mind that water consumption for each individual plant is not constant. The value varies depending on the average temperature, rainfall and the characteristics of the soil on which the crops grow. Excessive watering is just as harmful as insufficient watering, as it leads to rotting of the plant's roots.
Step 3 Based on the figure obtained at the previous stage, determine the volume of the water tank and the cross section of the main pipeline. The table below shows the maximum possible liquid flow rates depending on the pipe diameter. Choose the volume of the tank and the cross section of the main line with a small margin according to the characteristics. This small reserve may be needed in case of an increase in water consumption for irrigation.
Table. The dependence of the maximum water flow on the diameter of the pipeline.
Pipe diameter, mm | Water consumption, l/hour |
---|---|
16 | 600 |
20 | 900 |
25 | 1800 |
32 | 3000 |
40 | 4800 |
50 | 7200 |
Step 4 Determine the number and length of taps connected to the common line. If a tape for drip irrigation is used as a direct means of delivering moisture to plants, then proceed from the rule: one bed - one branch with a tape. And when using polypropylene pipes and droppers from one outlet, it is possible to provide watering of two beds at once.
In the presence of lines and branches of great length, it is necessary to use a pump to maintain pressure in the system.
Step 5 Determine the distance between the droppers connected to the outlets from polypropylene pipes. One dropper can "power" two plants on the same bed (or four if the outlet is located between adjacent beds) with the appropriate adapter.
Step 6 Take a double checkered notebook sheet or graph paper and draw a sketch of the future drip irrigation system. Transfer the location of the water tank, fertilizer tank, faucet, filter, main pipe, tee fittings and bends to it.
Step 7 Calculate the amount of materials needed to equip the irrigation system. The calculations and the sketch created at the previous design stages will help you with this.
Tank installation
The water tank must be at a certain height so that gravity acting on the liquid creates pressure in the pipes of the drip irrigation system. On average, the container is raised to a height of 2 meters - in this way, pressure is provided in the line that is sufficient for efficient irrigation of 40-50 square meters. If the plot with beds has b about larger area, then either the tank is raised higher, or a pump is installed in the main line.
Step 1. Build a container support. The easiest way to make it is from a beam with a large section and thick wide boards. Drive the timber to a certain depth into the ground, lay the boardwalk on top. For greater strength, install cross bars between the supports. Instead of timber and boards, bricks or steel pipes can be used.
Step 2 Install a connection to the drip irrigation line on the tank. Install the fitting and the valve at a height of 5-10 centimeters from the bottom of the tank - so large particles of dust and dirt do not get into the pipeline.
Step 3 On the opposite side of the container, connect to the water supply. Use a shut-off valve with a float mechanism - the device will automatically open to replenish the tank and close when the water level reaches its maximum.
Step 4 Lift and place the container on the support. Postpone the direct connection of the tank to the water supply to the last stage of arranging the drip irrigation system.
An open tank can be used as a container - in this case, it will be partially replenished due to rain. But at the same time, take care to install a good filter - along with precipitation, a lot of dust, debris and leaves will get into the container, which can cause clogging of pipes.
Laying the main line and branches
Since polypropylene pipes are used as the material for the main line and bends, it is necessary to familiarize yourself with how to properly cut and connect them to each other.
You can get a clean cut without burrs and deformations using special pipe cutters designed to work with plastic products. If, for some reason, the acquisition of such a tool is impossible, then a hacksaw is used as an alternative, or, when working with small pipes, a sharp clerical knife. But at the same time, the quality of the cut will decrease, and this will not affect the durability of the pipe and the quality of the connection with other elements of the system.
The situation is more complicated with the connection of polypropylene pipes with fittings and other elements.
There are three ways in total:
- by soldering;
- using crimping;
- by cold welding.
The first method gives a strong and durable connection that can withstand high pressure in the system. But for it, you will need a special soldering machine with a set of nozzles and some skills in working with such a tool.
Soldering tool for polypropylene pipes
Step 1. Inspect the fitting and pipe section for defects or defects.
Step 2 Degrease the outer surface of the pipe at the intended joint and the inner surface of the fitting.
Step 3 Install a suitable nozzle on the soldering tool - the hole in the pipe part must correspond to the outer diameter, and in the fitting part - to the inner section.
Step 4 Warm up the soldering tool and nozzle.
Step 5 At the same time, insert the pipe and slide the fitting into the corresponding parts of the nozzle. Wait for the time indicated in the instructions for the tool. The soldering iron will heat up the outside of the pipe and the inside of the fitting.
Step 6 At the same time, remove the fitting and pull the pipe from the nozzle and connect them to each other to the heating depth. Hold for five seconds, then allow some time for the compound to cool.
The main disadvantage of using a soldering machine is the need for a soldering tool. It is quite expensive, and it is not advisable to use it only once.
In addition, such a connection is obtained non-separable. An alternative would be to use compression fittings and a crimp wrench. However, in the case of polypropylene pipes, the quality and tightness of such a connection leave much to be desired. A simpler and cheaper way to connect is "cold welding" with a special adhesive.
cold welding prices
cold welding
Step 1. Examine the fitting and pipe for defects. If there are no defects, dock without glue, mark the connection depth with a marker.
Step 2 Degrease and clean the bonding surfaces of the pipe and fitting.
Step 3 Apply adhesive to the outside of the pipe and the inside of the fitting.
Step 4 Connect the elements to each other. Make sure that they are connected evenly, without skew to one side. Keep them in a similar position should be from 15 to 30 seconds. Water supply in such a connection is permissible only after 24 hours.
Connection of PP pipes by the method of "cold welding"
It is possible to make the pipelines of the drip irrigation system detachable and easily dismantled using fittings of the "American" type.
Before starting the installation of the main line and bends, it is necessary to decide which method of arranging the pipes is preferable - surface or deep. In the first case, all elements of the system are simply laid on the ground (or above it with the help of holder brackets). Pipes lying on the surface are easy to repair and replace, but they can also be easily damaged by carelessness.
With a deep occurrence, the main and auxiliary communications fit into a narrow trench with a depth of 0.3 to 0.75 meters. Inspection and maintenance of pipes in this case is difficult, but at the same time they do not interfere with walking around the site and harvesting crops from plants. Having decided on the method of occurrence of highways, you can proceed with their installation.
Step 1. Attach a fine filter to the water tank and ball valve. If you plan to install a container with fertilizers, a pump and a controller for automatic drip irrigation, install them.
Step 2 Using an elbow fitting and a piece of pipe of the appropriate size, bring the line to a height of about 5-10 centimeters above the ground. Install the holder bracket as a support.
Step 3 Cut segments of polypropylene pipes according to the distance between the branches. Consider also the "seams" between the parts of the line and the fittings.
Step 4 Consistently install and connect the lengths to the tee fittings. At the same time, maintain the slope - the end of the highway should be closer to the ground than the beginning. This is necessary to effectively drain the water before the onset of cold weather.
Step 5 Install either a plug or a ball valve at the end of the main pipe. The latter is preferable, because by opening it, you will be able to quickly drain the water or clean the pipes from blockages that have accumulated in them.
Option number 1. drip tape
First, consider the option with the tape. The thickness of its walls and the spacing of the holes is selected depending on which crop is planned to be supplied with moisture.
Table number 3. The spacing of the holes on the drip tape, depending on the crops grown.
The sequence of actions is as follows.
Step 1. Install start connectors with taps to the tees perpendicular to the main line.
Step 2 Divide the drip tape into parts, equal in length to the length of the beds (with a small margin).
Step 3 Fix one end of the drip tape in the start connector.
Step 4 Close the other end of the drip tape with a plug or roll it up and tie it with insulating tape.
Drip tape is not in the best way suitable for those areas where birds and rodents are found in abundance, which can easily damage its thin walls.
Option number 2. Tube with droppers
In the second case, you will need polypropylene pipes of small diameter (for example, 16 cm for small beds), an adjustable dripper with outlets, flexible pipes with a cross section of 3-5 mm and turbulent stands. One outlet can have 1, 2 or 4 outlets, respectively, one dropper can supply moisture to 1, 2 or 4 bushes.
Step 1. Using soldering or cold welding, attach branch pipes to the tees perpendicular to the line.
Step 2 With a certain step, drill holes in the outlet pipe. The diameter of the holes must match the diameter of the dripper seal.
Step 3 Insert the dropper seal into the hole, then the dropper itself. Next, mount the branch, connect the appropriate number of flexible pipes with turbulent struts at the end to it. Then stick them into the ground next to the plants.
Step 4 Install a plug at the end of the outlet pipe.
Step 5 Repeat the previous two steps for all holes in the outlet pipes.
The final stages of installing a drip irrigation system are connecting the tank to the water supply, filling it with liquid and a kind of stress test, during which you need to make sure that all elements of the system are working properly.
For a better understanding of the drip irrigation device, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the following video.
Video - How to make drip irrigation with your own hands
Drip irrigation system automation
Today, manual control for a drip irrigation system is not practical to use - it requires a daily presence in the garden, which can only be ensured if you either live there or have enough free time to come there every other day.
The simplest option for system automation is the installation of a specialized microcomputer. It consists of a programmable controller, a chipset with memory, an LCD display, control buttons and a housing that is resistant to moisture and temperature extremes. The microcomputer is installed on the central highway and a regular watering program is set in it. Switching on and off is carried out using solenoid valves that replace conventional ball valves.
Prices for controllers for automatic irrigation
controllers for automatic irrigation
But such a system does not take into account the state environment, therefore, there is always a risk that plants will either not receive the right amount of moisture, or will receive it in excess. The solution to this problem is the installation of a complex of weather and humidity sensors. Depending on the weather and soil moisture, the watering program will be adjusted to increase or decrease the amount of water directed to each plant.
The device of such a system is as follows: a plastic bottle is dug in near each individual plant in the greenhouse, in which holes of small diameter are made. Read more in.
A drip irrigation system based on polypropylene pipes and droppers will not only free you from the work associated with supplying plants with water, but will also help to significantly increase their growth rate and yield.
Video - Automatic drip irrigation "Rosinka" in the greenhouse
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Manual watering of the site eventually turns into a burdensome task, which you want to do less and less. Automatic or automated irrigation will help solve the problem. You can handle the design of the system and the installation of all its components on your own. How? Read on.
Choosing a source of water supply
We provide installation instructions for two irrigation systems: a large-scale automatic using a programmable controller and a modest manual, equipped on the basis of a barrel.
Before proceeding with the arrangement of any of the two systems under consideration, it is necessary to select a source of water and pumping equipment suitable for a particular situation. Water can be taken from:
Find out which one to choose, and also consider the types and installation process in our article.
Prices for electric water pumps
Electric water pumps
Table. Pump Malysh used for pumping water from open reservoirs, wells and wells. Characteristics
Pump Kid, characteristics | Indicators |
---|---|
Pump type | Household vibrating submersible |
Current consumption | 3 A |
Power | 165 W |
Water intake | Lower |
pressure | 40 m |
Performance | 432 l/min |
Length of cable | 10-40 m |
Continuous work | No more than 12 consecutive hours |
The need to turn off the power for 15-20 minutes | Every 2 hours |
Connection | To flexible hose |
We do full automatic watering
We draw a plan
Let's start with the design of the site plan. On a scale, we will mark on it the main elements of our estate: a house, a veranda, an entrance, an outdoor stove, etc. - so we can determine the permissible area of \u200b\u200bsprinklers.
On the diagram we mark the point of water intake. If there are several sources of water, and they are located in different places on the site, we select a tap located approximately in the middle. In such a situation, we will be able to provide approximately equal length of irrigation lines
Choosing an irrigation method
In this example, the system is set up to irrigate a large lawn and several beds, as well as an area with shrubs and trees. You can also adjust the layout to suit your site.
The part with the lawn and flower beds will be watered with the help of retractable sprinklers. When turned on, they rise above the surface, and after watering is completed, they fall and become almost invisible.
For the second part of our plot, this irrigation option is not suitable: the plantations are too high, and the width of the plot is small.
Important note! The use of sprinklers to irrigate areas less than 2 m wide is not recommended. Such devices have too large a range, which can cause a number of inconveniences.
To irrigate this part of the plantations, we lay a drip line. It is a pipe of the required length with holes arranged along the entire length. Such a pipe can be buried or simply laid between the beds.
Prices for guns, nozzles, hose sprinklers
Guns, nozzles, hose sprinklers
We draw up an irrigation scheme
We mark on the plan of our site the points of installation of sprinklers and the radii of their coverage. We adhere to the following design order:
- at the corners of the site we install sprinklers for irrigation at 90 degrees;
- along the boundaries of the territory we install devices that irrigate the space 180 degrees around them;
- at the corners of the site near various buildings and structures, we install sprinklers at 270 degrees;
- on the area we install devices that water 360 degrees.
We select the number of sprinklers so that the coverage radii of devices installed next to each other intersect. With this placement of devices, not a single plant will be deprived of moisture. However, this method is relevant only for large areas that have the correct shape.
In our example, the plot area is relatively small, while it has a narrow strip along a residential building. Therefore, we draw up a project in the following order:
- First, we mark the installation sites of sprinklers with the largest radius of action. We will use them to water the main part of the garden;
- on the narrow side of the site we mark places for sprinklers with a more modest irrigation radius;
- in places where sprinklers do not reach, we plan to lay a drip line.
Important! Check the project. Ensure that all plantings will receive water.
We check the water intake for throughput
The finished plan allows us to set the desired number of sprinklers. However, before installing the system, we must find out whether the performance of the water supply source is sufficient to effectively service the system being built. We do it like this:
Now we determine whether the water intake can ensure the simultaneous operation of all planned irrigation lines. The need for sprinklers remains the same and is determined according to the area covered. In our example, we set:
- devices for 180 degrees with a coverage area of up to 200 m 2 - 2 pieces. The water requirement of each appliance is 12, totaling 24;
- sprinklers at 270 degrees with a coverage area of up to 200 m 2 - 2 pieces. The need of each is 14, total - 28;
- 180 degree device with coverage up to 50 m 2 - 1 piece. Need - 7;
- device for 270 degrees with coverage up to 50 m 2 - 1. Demand - 9;
- sprinkler at 90 degrees with a coverage area of up to 50 m 2 - 1. Water requirement - 6.
In total, the water demand of our irrigation devices is 74. The water intake is only able to give out 60. It will not be possible to connect all devices to one line for simultaneous use. To solve the problem, we make two lines of sprinklers. One will be used to service large devices, the other - for small ones.
For drip irrigation, we make a third line. It requires individual management, as the main lines are turned on for about half an hour every day, while the drip lines should work for at least 40-50 minutes, depending on the characteristics of the soil and the needs of the plantations.
It is impossible to connect a drip line and sprinklers to a common line. With such an arrangement of the system, the area served by sprinklers will either be watered too abundantly, or the area with drip irrigation will not be able to receive liquid in sufficient volume.
We automate the system
To regulate the operation of the system, we install a programmable controller. With this device, we can set the time to turn on and turn off irrigation. For the safety of the device, it is recommended to install it indoors, for example, in the basement.
Near the water supply tap, we install an inlet column for connecting the system, as well as a special mounting box for placing shut-off valves according to the number of irrigation lines. We have 3 of them. Each valve is connected to the controller using a two-wire cable. From the valves we divert one irrigation line. Such an arrangement of the system will allow it to be programmed to turn on each irrigation line separately.
We set up the lines as follows:
- one was taken to feed the large sprinklers. For the manufacture of the line itself, 19 mm pipes were used, for branches to sprinklers - pipes of 16 mm diameter;
- the second was used for small sprinklers serving an area of up to 50 m 2 . Pipes used similar;
- the third line was allocated for drip irrigation. For the manufacture of this line, a 19 mm pipe was used. Next, we connected a special drip pipe to it. It is made in the form of two closed loops. We connected the end of the drip pipe to the supply pipe.
To improve irrigation efficiency, we have included a rain sensor in the system. It will not allow watering to turn on during rainfall. We connect the sensor to the controller according to the attached instructions. In most cases, the controllers themselves are plugged into an ordinary outlet, which is very convenient.
Connecting and configuring irrigation
First step. We place irrigation elements on the site and connect them to each other using special connectors and splitters. We make sure that no earth gets into the pipes.
The design of the connectors is very simple - even a woman can easily cope with the work
Second step. We connect the assembled system to the water supply and do a test run. We expose sprinklers in the right directions. If everything is in order, we proceed to earthworks.
Third step. We dig a 200-250 mm ditch along the pipeline.
Fourth step. We fill the bottom of the trench with a layer of gravel. The backfill will take on the functions of a drainage cushion, which ensures the removal of residual water.
Fifth step.
Sixth step. We carry out backfill trenches.
Seventh step. We turn on the system for verification. Adjusting sprinklers.
Eighth step. We program the controller to turn irrigation on and off at the required time. Remember: the lines must work alternately, you can turn them on simultaneously only with sufficient bandwidth water intake.
Irrigation is connected and configured. We can accept it for permanent operation. In the future, we regularly check the condition and correct operation of the elements of the irrigation system.
Irrigation on a budget
No need for large-scale automatic irrigation? Then use a simple budget option based on the barrel.
First step
We make a stand for the barrel. We use a profiled pipe or channel. The optimal height of the support is 1.5-2 m. The support posts should be inclined to each other at such an angle that the dimensions of the upper frame make it possible to stably lay our barrel. We connect the supports with horizontal jumpers at the bottom, in the middle and at the top. We swarm 70-80 cm pits for the installation of supports, expose the structure, fill 10-15 cm of the height of each pit with crushed stone and pour concrete. Important! At the time of concrete hardening, we fix the supports with spacers.
Drip irrigation- water tank
Second step
Preparing a container for water. Any whole and not rusty barrel will do. At the top of the barrel we cut a pipe for connecting a hose. Through it, the barrel will be filled with water. Connect the other end of this hose to the water intake. In the lower part we also equip the pipe. We connect a hose for irrigation to it. We complete both hoses with taps for turning the water supply on and off. We put the barrel on the support. For greater reliability, we fix it with clamps, bolts and nuts.
Third step
On the site plan indicate the places that need watering. We draw a diagram of the irrigation system indicating all the splitters, connectors, plugs, taps, pipes, hoses and other elements.
Fourth step
We assemble the irrigation system. The easiest and most convenient option is to buy a ready-made kit for arranging drip irrigation. Also, such a system can be done independently. To do this, it is enough to prepare the required number of pipes or hoses, make holes along their length, connect the elements in single system using connectors and splitters, and then connect to the hose coming out of the drum.
Irrigation sprayerSuccessful work!
Video - DIY irrigation system
One of the main directions in the cultivation of any plant is saturation with moisture (watering). It is especially important to provide young seeds and seedlings with the necessary amount of water in the early stages of development. Many garden and indoor crops are abundantly watered directly when planting in open ground or in greenhouses.
But not less an important factor The rapid growth of most garden crops is the provision of life-giving moisture during the active growing season. However, not all plants require the same amount of water. Some prefer to grow in conditions of high soil moisture, while others develop in drier soil. How to solve such a problem?
In order to qualitatively and proportionally distribute water between plants, there are special systems that are developed by both gardeners themselves and professionals. This system is called drip irrigation. In the country, it is used with great efficiency. You no longer need to walk around with hand-held garden tools (watering cans, buckets, sprayers, sprinklers), as well as stretching the hose for garden watering every time and wasting time on this activity.
You can make drip irrigation in the country with your own hands. To do this, you do not need to have special professional skills, it is enough to study the assembly diagrams well and purchase the necessary materials (barrel and piping system). You can buy everything you need to carry out this task with home delivery in the online store. There are also less complicated ways to organize drip irrigation of beds in the country, the implementation of which requires a minimum of material costs and skills (plastic bottles in various interpretations).
How to independently make drip irrigation in the country? What options exist and how to implement them?
Drip irrigation systems for summer cottages
There are several options for drip systems that are used by summer residents to organize watering beds. One of the most difficult at first glance, but the most effective, are drip irrigation systems, consisting of a pump for water supply, a tank (a metal or plastic container for water supply), a piping system with special holes for spraying, connecting fittings. For giving, this option is best used, but in the presence of large beds that can reach more than 10 m long. For small household plots, such drip irrigation systems are also successfully used. It takes less time to install and maintain them.
The principle of operation of such systems lies in the operation of one of the laws of physics - communicating vessels. According to the law, water in communicating vessels is distributed equally, regardless of the parameters (length, width or shape). Thus, water in such a drip irrigation system for a summer residence (garden) is equally supplied through all pipelines, maintaining the required pressure. The barrel is installed at a certain height from the surface on special props (a metal or wooden frame can be used). Communications are connected to it: on the one hand, irrigation pipelines laid out throughout the site in horizontal lines, and on the other, water supply from the main water supply or own well (well).
It should be noted that if there is a well and there is no central water supply, an additional pump must be installed. It provides uninterrupted pumping of water into the tank.
Irrigation of the garden or beds takes place in small portions and directly under the root system of plants. Thus, the maximum effect from the ingress of water into the soil is ensured.
Having dealt with the drawings and the principle of operation, you can proceed with the installation. Home-made drip irrigation in the country should begin with planning the site and drawing on it a schematic representation of all the branches of the watering pipes. The diagram also indicates their length, the location of the container, the method of filling it with water (pump, manual filling with buckets, rainwater).
Typical work plan for installation and drip irrigation devices for summer cottages:
- On a blank piece of paper (you can use special programs on personal computer) we draw a diagram of a garden plot with the application of existing plantations that need to be provided with moisture, as well as communications (a well, a central water pipe, a main hose, and other sources of filling the barrel). It is necessary to measure the distance between the rows and the length of the rows. Such a detailed scheme will allow you to accurately calculate the amount of material needed.
- It is necessary to plan the placement of the tank and pay special attention to this. Depending on the filling method, the drip irrigation barrel in the country should be placed ergonomically and rationally. If a pump is used to supply water to a container, then it can be placed anywhere in the site, but not far from the garden and from the source of supply. Mostly, you need to put the barrel as close to the garden as possible. Installation height varies depending on the relief of the site (1-2.5 m.)
- After installing the container, you need to plan the laying of the drip irrigation hose for the cottage (see photo). One branched hose is calculated per bed. Branching with drip tapes is done using special connectors. The central hose in relation to the tank is installed only perpendicular to the bed. It is attached to the tank with starting fittings. To install the fitting, a hole is made in the tank, just above the bottom, using a drill with a drill of the desired diameter (usually 1/2 inch) or using a metal crown. After inserting the main pipe with branches, it is necessary to plan the insertion of a filter to purify the water that comes for irrigation from the tank. If this is not done, debris can often clog drippers, which will noticeably affect the functionality of drip irrigation.
- Drip tapes in rows are installed as close to the garden crop as possible. Droppers should also be aimed at the base of the plant.
- Central the main water supply pipe to the tank is attached using a mortise fitting with an adapter. In the well, it is joined to the pump. You can also use not deep pumps, but external pumping stations to organize drip irrigation in the country. The only negative is that under it you need to dig and equip a pit.
- When everything is done, you can fill the container with water and check the entire system. The use of drip irrigation in the country will solve the problem of moisture deficiency in the docile periods during the growing season of plants.
The first start-up of the irrigation system should be carried out with flushing of all pipes and droppers. To do this, all plugs are removed, and water is driven out.
There are also innovative systems - automatic drip irrigation. In the country, their use is rational in the event that there are several garden plots and you can’t keep track of everyone. Then special sensors are installed that activate the water supply at the right time, according to the settings. In small areas, this is very costly.
The main advantages of drip irrigation:
- Since watering is carried out directly under the stem, it is possible to apply fertilizer in liquid form without harming the plant.
- Saving the physical strength of a person, time for organizing irrigation, and also allows you to rationally and economically spend and evenly distribute water.
- The possibility of drying out of the soil and its waterlogging is excluded.
- Such a system is used for all types of garden crops, as well as garden shrubs and trees (even for irrigating ornamental plants).
- Regular feeding of plants.
Disadvantages of this irrigation system:
- Costs for the purchase of materials, pump and component parts.
- Requires constant care. The droppers and filter need to be cleaned frequently.
- The cost of electricity for pumping water into a barrel.
Despite all the disadvantages, reviews of drip irrigation in the country say that there are much more advantages. And most importantly, it is a high-quality and large harvest, which cannot be achieved without timely watering.
Drip irrigation from plastic bottles to give
In order not to spend money on the purchase and arrangement of an automatic irrigation system through a tank and a piping system, resourceful gardeners came up with other methods for organizing drip irrigation in the country - plastic bottles.
As practice shows, the use of such an irrigation system is effective if it is necessary to provide plants with the necessary amount of moisture in small areas for 3-5 days. It happens that a person does not appear at the dacha often (mostly on weekends). Thus, plastic containers will be most welcome. How to make drip irrigation yourself in the country from plastic bottles? To ensure the irrigation of garden crops, it is necessary to take containers with a volume of 1.5 to 3 liters. You can take a larger container, but its use is only advisable when growing garden plants, which require more moisture than many garden crops.
Drip watering with bottles in the country is carried out in two ways:
Using these drip irrigation methods, it is also possible to feed the plants with liquid fertilizers. These are the cheapest and least expensive methods of drip irrigation. The only drawback is the hassle and time consuming to cut holes and create a frame for hanging bottles. Despite this, many summer residents effectively use plastic bottles to supply a garden or garden with water.
Now it’s not a problem to build with your own hands drip system irrigation for your dacha without additional installation costs. You can buy accessories for a drop in specialized network or online stores, or use improvised materials and your ingenuity. The easiest option is to buy ready-made automated system watering, which you just need to collect.
The idea of drip irrigation arose among farmers in the last century, it was used to create irrigation systems for vegetable and gourds in dry regions. the main objective such irrigation - delivery of life-giving moisture exactly to the root zone of a vegetable plant (tomato, pepper, eggplant), fruit trees, shrubs or under bushes of garden strawberries.
The main element of the system is a water source, from which moisture is supplied to the desired part of the garden (garden) and drips into the ground in small portions. The supply and shutdown of water can be carried out automatically, by time, or upon reaching the desired level of soil moisture, or in manual mode.
Transport communications (pipes, tape, hose) must fit each plant and deliver water directly to the roots. The pressure is created using a pump or due to a height difference (raise the source to a sufficient height).
Benefits of drip irrigation
A list of the positives of drip irrigation, for those who still carry watering cans and hoses around the garden. First of all, this is a real saving of water, personal time and physical strength of the summer resident. This is already a big plus, especially if the water is not from a natural source, but from a paid water supply and the flow is controlled by a meter.
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With properly organized watering, they save about 80% of water, completely satisfying the need of plants for moisture.
The use of a drop has a positive effect on plants:
- the soil is always moist, there is no excess and lack of moisture;
- optimal humidity in the root zone serves as a prevention of fungal infections, improves immunity;
- absence sunburn;
- the system allows you to combine watering with root top dressing with fertilizers.
In the hot season, the owners of greenhouses are especially happy with the drop. Drip irrigation plus mulch and good ventilation provide plants with comfortable conditions and make life much easier for summer residents.
How to make drip irrigation with your own hands without high costs
In order to save the family budget, having a minimum set of tools in the country, many people do drip irrigation with their own hands from the available materials. Homemade designs improve the quality of irrigation.
You will need a source of water with a volume of at least 100 liters. Canisters, plastic barrels are suitable for this purpose. Important point- the installation height of the container, it should be at least 1 m, and preferably 1.5-2 m.
Important!
From the height at which the barrel is located, the pressure of water in the system will depend.
It is practical to place the container under the drain. This arrangement has two advantages: the consumption of tap water is reduced, and rain water contains ammonium and iron useful for horticultural crops. Water is supplied under bushes, trees, to the greenhouse on the ridges by garden hoses.
Cut the hose, make holes in it after the exact irrigation scheme is drawn. It is necessary to make allowances - cut segments of a slightly longer length than indicated in the diagram. Arrange the resulting pieces according to the drawing, connect, mount cranes in the right places. In the marked places, use a hot nail or drill to make holes for water supply.
Drip Irrigation Options
For those who like to do everything with their own hands, there is a choice different ways production of country drip irrigation. One option is to purchase at a gardening store:
- a hose for supplying water to the greenhouse (on the ridge);
- tapes of the required length;
- cranes;
- fittings.
There are ready-made kits on sale that have everything you need (tape, hoses, faucet, tee, ties) and assembly instructions, but you can quickly make a simple irrigation design using the advice of craftsmen.
Traditional design
AT country houses and in dachas, a classic irrigation scheme is in use, consisting of a barrel (source of water) and an extensive water supply system, consisting of pipes (hoses), plugs, special hoses (tapes), start connectors, tees and taps.
Pipes perform the function of a main conduit, through which water flows to plants in garden beds or in a greenhouse. Water is supplied to the plants through special hoses, in which droppers are mounted, when choosing which they look at the characteristics:
- productivity (l/hour);
- the interval between droppers for hoses is 0.2-1.5 m, for tapes 0.15-0.3 m;
- wall thickness of the tape (hose).
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The optimum productivity of the hose is 1.2-4 l/h.
Thick wall hoses 20 mm or more are more expensive but have a longer life than thin wall hoses. The thickness of the drip tapes is less (0.12-0.4 mm), they have an oval shape, there are two types: seamless, glued. The length of the irrigation hose is allowed 250 m with a tape diameter of 16 mm and 450 m if the diameter is 22 mm.
Polypropylene pipes are laid from the source to the irrigation sleeves from a hose or tape; fittings are used to connect the structure. In order to disconnect the irrigation zone from the source, taps are installed in the system, they are placed after the tees so that debris does not clog the tape holes, a filter is installed on any source.
Do-it-yourself drip irrigation from plastic bottles
During the winter it is easy to accumulate a large number of plastic bottles from 1.5 to 2 liters. In the spring, they will come in handy in the garden, with their help you can build the simplest structure for delivering water to the root system. We are preparing a tool, for this we need a drill and a drill bit deuce (2 mm).
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The volume of liquid poured into the bottle is enough for 3 days. For summer residents who occasionally come out of town, the design will help in organizing regular watering of moisture-loving crops (cucumbers, peppers) in the greenhouse and in open field.
Steps for making a bottle drop:
- holes are drilled in the tire;
- the bottom of the container is cut, but not completely;
- at the bush (tomato, peppers, strawberries) in the area of \u200b\u200bthe roots, a recess is dug (no more than 15 cm);
- the bottle is placed in a recess, tilted at 45 ° to the level of the horizon;
- pour water.
Instead of a tire with holes, you can use purchased pegs for watering. They are put on the throat of the bottle, and stuck in the right place. The bottle design is suitable for root feeding. Instead of water, liquid fertilizer is poured.
Watering with medical droppers
Inexpensive medical droppers are used in the manufacture of a simple irrigation system for summer cottages. You will also need a polyethylene pipe with a diameter of 25 mm and tools: a drill with a 4 mm drill and a thick sewing needle.
With a needle in the flask from the dropper, the filter is picked out, and the required number of holes are drilled in the pipe with a drill, under the droppers. The pipes are laid out over the site, welded, the source is equipped with a tap and a filter.
Important!
To prevent dirt from the bottom of the barrel from entering the system, a tap hole is drilled at a height of 7 cm from the bottom of the tank.
Following the tap, they put a filter for water purification, and a pipe of the central line is attached to it. One end of the dropper is inserted into the holes drilled in the pipes, the other end with the dispenser is attached to a peg and installed in the place of irrigation. The rate of water supply is regulated by clamps.
Drip irrigation from polypropylene pipes
Polypropylene pipes serve for many years, they do not rust and are easily interconnected by welding. In addition to pipes, you need to have:
- a barrel of 100 or more liters;
- crane (ball);
- water filter;
- tees;
- cranes.
First, a diagram is drawn indicating the exact dimensions and designation of irrigation points. Counting overall length pipes and number of outlets. The drive is raised to a height of 1.5-2 m, a crane is inserted into its lower part, while retreating from the bottom by 7-10 cm. A 100-liter capacity is enough to provide moisture for 50 m² of a garden.
One end of the central line is connected to the tank (filter), a plug is attached to the second, in addition, each outlet must end with a plug. Holes are drilled in pipes (bends). When all the parts are assembled, the container is filled, the tap is opened and it is checked whether water enters the ridges.
Underground drip irrigation
Underground irrigation reduces the evaporation of moisture, and therefore reduces the amount of water used. It takes less time to fight weeds, they do not grow in the absence of surface watering. A big plus of underground irrigation is the absence of a crust, the soil on the surface is always loose, which provides good oxygen access to the roots.
It is good to have an underground drip irrigation system in a greenhouse: communications do not take up usable area, the humidity of air and soil is normal, and there is no oxygen starvation in plants.
Required Tools
First of all, you need a shovel. We'll have to dig trenches, since all communications will be underground. Of the tools you need a drill and scissors. Holes are drilled in pipes with a drill, plastic film is cut with scissors. Pipes for underground irrigation take polypropylene, in order to connect them, you will need a basic set of tools:
- soldering iron;
- steel knife;
- hacksaw;
- pencil and tape measure.
Simple soldering irons for propylene are not expensive, but they do not have to be purchased, they can be rented for a short time.
Manufacturing and installation process
First, they draw a diagram and take measurements, determine the required length of pipes. For underground irrigation, polyethylene pipes with a diameter of 20 to 40 mm are suitable. Holes with a diameter of 2-3 mm are drilled with the desired step of 20-40 cm, using a drill.
Important!
A water filter must be installed on the water tank.
The trenches are dug to the depth of the roots according to the developed scheme, the distance between the trenches is 40-90 cm and the installation is started:
- polyethylene strips are laid on the bottom and walls;
- a layer of crushed stone is poured over the polyethylene, its thickness is at least 4 cm;
- pipes are laid on the drainage layer;
- pipes are soldered, covered with geotextiles, covered with gravel and soil.
The water tank is raised above the ground so that the height difference provides pressure in the system. The line is connected to the source with a flexible hose through the filter.
If you don't want to use your hands
Busy people have no time to engage in the manufacture of home-made structures and independent selection of components for irrigation, they prefer to buy ready-made systems. Industrial irrigation systems are popular with summer residents:
- AquaDusya, AquaDusya Water Tap, AquaDusya automatic machine;
- Water Strider;
- irrigation systems from Gardena;
- Dewdrop;
- Harvest;
- PDA 24K.
Choosing a drip irrigation system
For summer residents who rarely come to the country, the Water strider, AquaDusya automatic machine, PDA 24K are suitable. These systems are equipped with automation, the irrigation mode is set, and greenhouses and garden beds are watered when the owner is not at the dacha, or he is busy with other things.
There are sets Rosinka, KPK 24, Harvest, Gardena without automation, which manually regulate the volume of water supply and connection (disconnection). Majority industrial systems drip irrigation are designed to supply water from a barrel. The AquaDusya Water Tap and Gardena sets can work from the water supply and from the pumping station.
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In the absence of electricity at the dacha, they purchase sets in which the automation is powered by batteries.
When buying, they evaluate the performance of the system and their needs:
- irrigation area;
- the number of ridges;
- type of vegetable crops.
Each vegetable or horticultural crop requires a certain amount of water per watering.
Installation of the system in a greenhouse or vegetable garden
Installation begins with the installation and equipment of the water tank. They make a tap for connecting to the water supply and a tap for connecting to the main pipe going to the irrigation site. The tank is installed on a support.
Connect the filter first, then the automation (timer, controller). To extend the service life, they are recommended to be placed in plastic technological boxes that protect the automation from rain and dust.
Proceed to the installation of the irrigation system:
- between the beds (in the greenhouse) lay the highway;
- using fittings (corners, tees), branches (branches) are made in the necessary places;
- holes are drilled in the main pipe;
- droppers or irrigation tapes are inserted into the holes;
- tapes are placed in the irrigation zone, droppers are distributed in places for planting;
- fill the container with water;
- doing a test run.
The automation setting is done after assessing the quality of irrigation. The timer (controller) sets the frequency and time of watering.
How to automate the process, "smart drip irrigation" with your own hands
Smart automation (timer, controller, sensors) makes life easier for the summer resident. Installing a timer (electromechanical, electric) on a water source allows you to supply and turn off water automatically at specified intervals.
In order for the timer to work, the pressure in the system is maintained using a pump, when choosing, the characteristics are evaluated:
- power;
- noise produced during operation;
- resistance to chemical compounds.
That is, the motor must be powerful enough, not noisy and not responsive to fertilizer solutions. With an unstable pressure level, a pressure reducer is installed.
With the help of the controller, a program is set that controls watering for several days. Automation with the help of sensors analyzes the indicators:
- water pressure;
- soil moisture level;
- air temperature.
Controllers are single-channel and multi-channel. In an extensive drip irrigation system, you can install several single-channel timers.
Conclusion
It takes a little time to assemble the irrigation system. Works high complexity no, therefore, any man who knows how to use a drill will assemble it. The family budget will tell you which is better, a home-made drop from improvised materials, or a ready-made system of domestic or foreign production. In order not to waste time on troubleshooting and repairs, you need to make accurate measurements, draw a diagram and carry out the installation correctly.
There are several reasons why gardeners are unwilling or unable to purchase a ready-made irrigation system for vegetable gardens and greenhouses. In such cases, drip irrigation is made by hand from the funds that every summer resident has.
After all, on your site you can find enough items and details for this. The advantage will be minimal financial costs. In addition, a well-made drip irrigation system for the garden can be safely used for its intended purpose.
Benefits of using drip irrigation
Soil aeration. The soil is not waterlogged, which ensures good ventilation of the plant root system for the entire period of growth, which is not interrupted at the time of irrigation or after it. Soil oxygen helps the root system achieve the best possible functioning.
root system. Root development is much better than with other irrigation methods. The plant more intensively consumes liquid and absorbs nutrients. With this method of irrigation, the efficiency exceeds 95%, when surface irrigation gives only 5%, and sprinkler - about 65%.
Food. Liquid fertilizers are absorbed directly by the root system. Nutrients are absorbed with maximum intensity, which gives the best effect. This method of plant nutrition is most effective in dry climates.
Plant protection. The leaves remain dry, as a result of which the likelihood of diseases is significantly reduced, since medicines are not washed off the leaves.
Soil erosion prevention. This method of irrigation makes it possible to irrigate slopes or topographically difficult areas. There is no need to build complex structures or move the soil.
Significant water savings. Compared to other irrigation methods, drip irrigation saves water in the range of 20-80%. Only the root system is moistened. Reduced water evaporation losses. Liquid from peripheral drains is not spent.
early maturation. With this irrigation, the soil temperature is higher than with other options, and this stimulates crops to harvest earlier.
Energy and labor costs. The power costs for irrigation are reduced. Saves energy. The drip system is not affected by the pressure drop in the pipeline.
Agrotechnology. Drip irrigation allows you to treat the soil, spray plants and harvest at any convenient time, regardless of irrigation, because the areas between the beds are not moistened throughout the season.
Soils. Drip irrigation allows you to grow plants on soils with a moderate salt content, since salted water can be used.
Did you know? Auto-irrigation has grown in popularity among Australians due to its ability to conserve water. For the inhabitants of this mainland, there are strict restrictions on the use of this natural resource. Such irrigation systems are installed in 3/4 of the dachas and gardens of Australians.
How to make a simple irrigation system
Drip irrigation is not an innovative technology and was invented a long time ago in a country with an arid climate - in Israel. Since then, it has been actively used in the agricultural industry around the world.
But in a small area it does not make sense to use expensive irrigation systems. Therefore, drip irrigation can be done with your own hands from improvised materials.
Making drip irrigation from bottles
The easiest way to build a homemade drip irrigation is to stock up on unnecessary plastic bottles. This system is perfect for small areas.
One container is designed for a maximum of two bushes, which makes it possible to develop an individual irrigation regime for each plant.
For watering crops that consume more liquid, bottles with an increased number of holes are attached. So the moisture will be sufficient. A two-liter container is enough for up to four days of irrigation.
If you have to leave for a longer period, then you can put bigger bottles, for example, 5-6 liters.
A design for bottle irrigation of garden plants can be built in three ways.
№1. Dig a container between rows or bushes, having previously made holes in it with a needle. Do not pierce large holes. Moisture should not flow out quickly.
Important! Make punctures as low as possible so that there is no liquid left in the bottle.
Leave the neck of the container above the soil by 5-7 centimeters, so it will be more convenient to fill it. To prevent the liquid from evaporating, screw the bottle with a lid with a hole previously made in it.
If you simply close the neck with a cap, a low pressure is formed inside the bottle, which crushes it. Depending on the type of soil, the number of holes made also varies.
Three will be enough for sandy. For clay it is better to do five.
№2. Water containers are suspended above the plants. Place pegs along the edges of the bed and stretch a wire or a strong rope between them. Hang bottles without a bottom on it.
Moisture in this case will evaporate faster, but heated water will not so injure the roots of plants that love heat.
Make a hole in the neck of such a diameter that the liquid does not pour out too quickly. To direct water directly to the root system, you need to insert a rod from the handle into the lid. So the water will be better absorbed.
Plug the free end of the rod with a toothpick and make a hole higher, then the water will not flow out too quickly. Lubricate the junction of the rod and the cover with sealant so that excess liquid does not get on the bed.
№3. In this method, bottles are also used as materials for drip irrigation, but with a small addition. The bottom of the bottle must be cut off and a special ceramic cone put on the neck.
They stick the container into the ground in the root circle of the plant. The internal structure of the cone serves as a kind of indicator that determines the level of soil moisture. As soon as it begins to dry out, moisture is again supplied to the root system.
How to create an irrigation system from medical droppers
Another simple way to feed plants is to collect drip irrigation with your own hands. from medical droppers. The main thing is to have all the necessary materials and tools at hand.
From droppers you can make an effective irrigation system, which is very accessible in terms of material resources. To create such a design, it is enough to strictly adhere to the plan and follow all the rules.
First of all, cut the system into segments equal to the length of the beds, and make holes in them. The distance between them should be at least half a meter.
Then hang the tubes over the beds. This can be done with various fasteners for parts. Plug the ends of the pipes. The wheel allows you to adjust the water pressure.
A do-it-yourself dripper for drip irrigation is a very convenient system. With its help, you can quickly water the beds, without making much effort.
Also, this system is suitable for feeding plants with liquid fertilizers. The nutrient fluid enters directly under the root of the culture.
Among the shortcomings, one can single out the need to dismantle the equipment when the temperature drops. Plastic can become unusable in winter.
How to make underground drip irrigation
The name of this method speaks for itself. Its essence lies in the fact that moisture does not come to the roots of plants from the outside, but directly underground.
This result is achieved thanks to pre-installed special structures for underground irrigation. Next, we will tell you how to organize drip underground irrigation with your own hands.
Required Tools
To create an apparatus for underground irrigation in a garden plot, you will need the following:
- Hoses and pipes of suitable diameter - 0.5 cm.
- Drainage layer consisting of pebbles, crushed stone, slag and cuttings of branches.
- Shovel.
- Roll of polyethylene.
- Filter element.
- Water access point.
Manufacturing and installation process
Before you equip drip irrigation at home, decide on the method of water supply. If there is no water supply to the garden, you should consider an option with a separate container specifically for irrigation.
Can be accumulated rain water from the roof, it remains only to think over the system for draining, supplying and collecting liquid into a separate container. The barrel of water should be higher than the beds.
Nobody canceled the physical laws, and water under pressure will come from the barrel. You can adjust the height of the tank to increase or decrease the water pressure.
The next step is laying the system itself. Dig a hole or trench, cover it with polyethylene and pour a drainage layer. Install the tubes (the holes in them should already be made) with the filter. Top with a drainage layer again and then cover with earth.
Did you know? In the US, a sub-irrigation system is one of the top desirable improvements for the garden.
If you don't feel like working with your hands
Just recently, only experienced gardeners with “hands from where you need” could build drip irrigation systems. After all, it is not so easy to calculate everything, pick up hoses and fasteners, carefully make holes. Today, in specialized stores, you can choose any model of drip irrigation system that you wish.
Choosing a drip irrigation system
Manufacturers of drip irrigation systems can design and manufacture various structural details. As they say, everything is in their hands. Yes, and they can be called pretentiously and differently, just to attract customers.
But a standard drip irrigation system consists of the following elements: a main hose through which water from the primary source goes to the supply hose, from which droppers depart.
Droppers can be both small thin tubes and larger hoses, at the ends of which there are screwed irrigation dispensers. The deeper they are twisted, the less water drips.
There are also various adapters in the kit, which are used for joining individual structural elements. There are also plugs for unnecessary hose holes so that water does not flow out from where it is not needed.
It is better to choose a system with a built-in filter that prevents drippers from clogging. The pegs that fix the hose will also be a plus, since, depending on the pressure of the water, the hose can change its position in space.
You can additionally order a timer - very handy thing. With it, you can endow the drip irrigation system with intelligence. You can set the start and end of irrigation, as well as the interval between watering. This feature is very convenient when you have to leave your garden for a long time.
Installation of the system in a greenhouse or vegetable garden
Every business that concerns the construction of any structure for a summer residence or garden should begin with planning. As they say, calculation is a pledge common sense and successful design.