Challenges and Benefits of an Irrigation System
Over the past two months we have reviewed misconceptions around watering your garden as well as the pros and cons of watering by hand. In this month's blog we will weigh the challenges and benefits of using an irrigation system to water your yard.
The biggest benefit of irrigation systems is the efficiency of time saving, water monitoring, and less hassle. A properly working irrigation system waters each plant with a slow drip that has minimum run off and maximum soil penetration, which can help with overall plant health. Automated systems water the plants on a predetermined schedule so you do not have to worry about forgetting to water your plants. These benefits do come with a cost, and that cost can be substantial depending on the size of your property and the amount of plants. All irrigation systems within the city of Santa Fe are required to have a back flow preventer, which helps keep the public water safe. This is an important component, but when factored in along with the many other parts of an irrigation system, can quickly add up in cost. Since a properly functioning irrigation system is water efficient, you may be able to recover some of your initial investment with lower monthly water bills.
One of the major downsides to an irrigation system is that gophers, rabbits and dogs can chew through the tubing causing both small and large leaks. Most leaks are fairly simple to repair, but some can take a long time to find and fix. One of the final downsides to having an irrigation system is the need to winterize every year. You can do this yourself as long as it is completed properly, otherwise ice build up can crack parts which will lead to costly replacements.
Even though an irrigation system can seem overwhelming, the time saving efficiency, water conservation, and less daily hassle may make this form of watering the option for you. Irrigation systems give you the piece of mind knowing that watering your plants is one less thing you have to check off your too do list.
Still have questions about what type of watering works best for you? Contact Desert Rose for your consultation today!
