There are many hobbies and leisure activities that we can spend time doing. Each has their benefits and perks. Some folks like to read; others like to make music, others enjoy working on their cars, and others still would rather play board games or video games. Having a hobby can provide a great outlet and allow you to find joy in life. One hobby that has many proven benefits is gardening. Being outside is always a plus, but bringing life to plants has proven benefits for health and well-being. But what if some elements of gardening are a mystery to you? Like irrigation supplies, for example. So today, we’ll demystify the shroud of what you don’t know about irrigation supplies, and you’ll walk away educated and ready to use them in your garden.

What is Irrigation?

Before we discuss irrigation supplies, we need to backtrack a bit. Irrigation means delivering water to plants. Plants need three things to flourish and grow to their full potential – dirt, water, and sunshine. Give just two, and you’ll run the risk of your plants dying. An irrigation system is any system that delivers water to your plants. These can be manual or automated. A hose is a form of irrigation. A sprinkler system is a common form of irrigation, too.

Some Common Irrigation Supplies in Most Systems

Next, let’s discuss some of the most common irrigation supplies you’ll come across while shopping for these products.

Backflow preventer – this is an anti-siphon tool that stops water from your system being reintroduced into your local water supply. This is important because a water supply needs to be contaminant free.

Main Line – this is the pipe or pipes that deliver the fluid to your sprinklers. It is important to the whole system because, if there is a break or a blockage in the mainline, the whole system will fail.

Shutoff Valve – like any water appliance (dishwashers and washing machines are common household appliances), you need a way to shut down the water supply. This part does just that and is needed in all irrigation systems.

Zone Lines – these are pipes that transport the water from the mainline into each other zone of your system.

Sprinkler Zone – this is a group of sprinklers that are meant to cover a zone in your garden to ensure adequate water makes it to your plants.

Valves – these open and shut to allow water to enter each zone.

Heads – these are on top of each sprinkler, and they spray the water out onto your garden.

Controller – this is essential to the tool that controls the whole system. It sends a command to each zone’s valve when it comes time to close or open. These are often programmable, so each zone can be wet at a different time if you wish.

Where to Get Irrigation Supplies

Now that you’re schooled up with all the terms and types of irrigation supplies, you’re probably wondering where to start. Online is a good bet, as you can usually find quality equipment for a good cost. Or, you can take a trip down to your local hardware store where they’ll most likely have a whole aisle dedicated to irrigation supplies. The choice is yours and depends on your schedule and budget.

To Conclude

There are proven benefits to spending time in the garden, but a great way to save time on watering your plants is with an irrigation (or sprinkler) system. We’ve outlined the various components of an irrigation system and how they work. So, happy gardening and give that green thumb a workout!