Porous Pipe Irrigation in a Vegetable Garden

Connection

• Porous pipe is versatile and can be connected to a sprinkler valve or even to a standard hose faucet. Make sure to use a backflow preventer, either hose-end or system-wide, to prevent outdoor water from contaminating the culinary supply. As with any low-volume irrigation system, make sure to use a pressure regulator to prevnett high water pressure from damaging other system components. They should be installed between the water connection and the beginning of the porous pipe.

Installation

• If the connection is a faucet that isn't adjacent to the garden plot, deliver the water using a standard garden hose, attaching the porous pipe to its end. Once the connection is made, lay the porous pipe down between rows of vegetables in lengths no longer than 100 feet. For multiple rows, create a run of PVC pipe with hose connections for each row and attach sections of porous pipe to each.

Timing

• Scheduling when the system applies the water can be as easy as turning on a faucet. However, using an irrigation timer can help apply water without drowning your plants. They range from the inexpensive hose-end timers, to more expensive system-wide controllers. Whatever type is used, it may take some time to figure out just how much water each garden needs. Pay attention to the amount of moisture in the soil and give it water only when it's needed.

Drawbacks

• Porous pipe is not always the best choice for watering vegetable gardens. Since the amount of water released through each opening is not regulated, it doesn't deliver it evenly. This isn't a problem for level gardens in good soil, but when the terrain is sloped or hilly, it may not work well. In those situations, drip tubing or drip tape may make more sense.