IRRIGATION
The time to save water is now – Irrigation innovations and efficiencies Paul Jeffery, Managing Director of Waterscapes Limited, discusses how efficient irrigation has to be in the forefront of everyone in the landscape industry As landscape professionals and end users alike, we have to identify that the water we use is not a limitless resource, and where we can, we should make every attempt to reduce our consumption as an individual, an organisation and as a worldwide population. The use of water in the landscape is essential for growing and maintaining, and if we want to keep those planted environments bright, healthy and lush, we have to water more efficiently.
In recent years, many of the worldwide irrigation manufacturers have released new innovative products to help designers, installers and users achieve this possibility (of efficient watering). From intelligent sprinkler nozzle design to non-blockage, sub-surface driplines; and from cloud accessible controls to improvements in moisture sensing and interaction, the world of landscape irrigation has leapt forward. With greater changes in seasonal temperatures, changes in rainfall patterns and extended dry periods – all related to the climate challenges faced by the entire world, the importance of efficient watering can only get more and more important. When irrigation is essential, we should be clear on our efficient best practice: Water Source – The majority of UK irrigation systems are supplied from mains water or ground water (boreholes, lakes etc) but does the project have any other untapped sources? Rainwater from roofs or hard surfaces can be used if filtered and treated correctly but ‘it never rains when you need it!!’ so consideration needs to be paid to correct sizing of any collection vessel or tank for rainwater. Control – The less manual watering the better, efficient watering is better achieved by automatic control. The majority of modern
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irrigation controllers have the ability to monitor water flow and detect leaks, interact with sensors and permit remote access by Wi-Fi, 4G or LAN so they can be checked and managed remotely. Moisture Sensors – Technology in sensing the level of moisture within the soil has improved dramatically. Sensors will interact directly with the irrigation controller, adjusting cycle time to achieve the optimum water applications – only replacing the moisture lost through evapotranspiration and plant use, instead of blanket watering.
Image by Willerby Landscapes.
Spray and Drip Irrigation – Spray irrigation technology has also moved forward leaps and bounds with highly efficient nozzles from all manufacturers but ultimately the most efficient way to water any plant is directly to the roots. Sub-surface dripline (where appropriate) now represents the most efficient method of applying water but has its drawbacks. As a contractor it is susceptible to damage at installation stage and also post completion when the Client or landscaper needs to dig.
RainBird XFS Sub-Surface Dripline.
Ultimately, if an irrigation system has been designed correctly, using the ‘right product, for the right planting, in the right growing medium’ and is regularly maintained by skilled operators, the customer should have the confidence that providing they use their irrigation system as designed, they will be doing their part in helping to reduce unnecessary water usage, and protecting this precious resource.
