by Jorge Cervantes
Moving Water
A readily accessible water source saves time and labor. A 4×4 foot garden containing 16 healthy plants in 3-gallon pots needs 10-25 gallons or water per week. Water weighs 8 pounds per gallon. Run a hose to the garden. A lightweight half-inch hose is easy to handle. The hose should have an on/off valve at the outlet. A rigid water wand will save many broken branches while watering in tight quarters.
Drip systems are used in soil or hydroponic gardens. They deliver nutrient solution (stored in a reservoir) on drop at a time or in low volume, via a low-pressure plastic pipe with friction fittings. Water flows down the pipe and out the emitter one drop at a time r at a very slow rate. Three emitters attached to the main hose are either spaghetti tubes or a nozzle dripper actually emitting from the main hose. Drip irrigation kits are available at garden stores and building centers.
Once set up, drip systems reduce watering maintenance. Fertilizer may also be applied easily via the irrigation system.