MICRO IRRIGATION, the application of water at a slow rate,
is a more efficient way to irrigate trees, shrubs and ground covers. Benefits
of micro irrigation include:
BETTER PLANT
GROWTH
-
A better soil water / oxygen balance is achieved,
resulting in faster growth and less plant loss.
-
Foliage and flowers are not wetted, resulting reduction
of plant disease and longer lasting blooms.
-
Weed growth is reduced, as very little soil surface is
wetted.
EASY INSTALLATION
-
Drip tubing is generally installed just beneath the
mulch, reducing labor costs to install, eliminating damage to plant roots and
reducing water loss to evaporation.
-
Existing in-ground sprinkler systems can be easily
modified. Use retrofit kits available at garden centers and home improvement
stores to convert spray heads to micro irrigation.
MORE EFFICIENT
IRRIGATION
-
Runoff is reduced. A lower flow rate allows more water
to get to plant roots. Wind does not degrade micro irrigation efficiency.
-
The ability to precisely control water placement allows
the irrigation of narrow and irregularly shaped areas without wasting water on
buildings and paved areas.
MORE SELECTION
-
Drip systems range from small emitter tubes to highly
controlled emitter pipes.
-
Micro-sprays are similar to regular spray heads except
water is applied at a slower rate of flow.
-
Bubblers are used to apply water to trees and shrubs to
avoid overspray.
A PDF version of
A Guide to Micro-Irrigation for West-Central Florida Landscapes is available
from the Southwest Florida Water Management District (1.5 MB).
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