Subsurface Drip Irrigation for Landscaping




Essential Tips for Landscaping Subsurface Drip Irrigation


Reduce Overspray, Evaporation, and Runoff
Subsurface drip irrigation has become a popular way to irrigate landscape properties. Burying the drip line is effective on slopes and uneven terrain where surface drip systems can cause erosion and complicate maintenance. Just like standard drip systems, subsurface systems facilitate plant and turf growth. 

Why bury your irrigation system? Here are just a few reasons we recommend it for your customers:

  • Prevents overspray from sprinklers in delicate or high traffic areas of your landscaping.
  • When emitters are evenly spaced, it provides that even distribution of water.
  • Prevents runoff and evaporation of water that can contribute to erosion or groundwater contamination.
  • Up to 70% more efficient than traditional turf watering methods, creating a cost effective system. It is inexpensive and easy to install. 

Subsurface drip irrigation can greatly increase the efficiency of your irrigation efforts. While your lawn enjoys the benefits of a slow-drip system, families and pets can use the property without risking an unplanned shower.

Still undecided? The pros at Vanden Bussche Irrigation have put together these tips for designing, installing, and fine-tuning subsurface drip irrigation systems for landscaping. 

When to Install Subsurface Drip Irrigation
Subsurface drip isn’t suited to every property, such as ones with massive tree root systems or high volumes of animals digging hole on the property. Yet, subsurface drip systems with efficient emitters can do so much more than just keep the lawn watered. Deliver fertilizer and herbicide (to keep roots out of the tubing) right through the drip lines!

When should you install these efficient systems? For new lawns, install the system before you lay down sod or grass seed. For existing landscapes, you can dig trenches next to your current surface irrigation solution for easy tracking.
 
Placement Tips for Subsurface Drips

Follow these tips and reach out to your Vanden Bussche sales representative for information on what systems to install under different conditions:

  • When placing emitter lines, note the type of soil on your client’s property. For sandy soil, space emitters and lines about 12 inches apart. For soil with high clay composition, space both components approximately 18 inches apart.
  • Are you installing the subsurface system on a slope? If so, place the lines close together at the top but more spread out at the bottom. 
  • Keep emitters about four inches from hardscapes to prevent dry spots. (Don’t miss our irrigation classes on the Online Training Portal for comprehensive training and orientation for new crew members!)
  • Insert the tubes 6 to 24 inches deep, depending on the turf, plants, shrubs, and trees making up the landscaping. 
  • Placing subsurface irrigation deep underground facilitates tillage. 
  • Face emitters upward for uniform water delivery and to prevent clogs. 
     

Operation Tips for Subsurface Drip Irrigation
The performance of your irrigation system depends on how well you maintain it. Regular inspection can prevent costly repairs and replacements that bust your clients’ budgets. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Rodents sometimes chew on the lines. So, watch out for any signs of infestation.
  • Wilted plants typically indicate a clogged emitter.
  • Maintain the filtration by regularly flushing it out. Talk to a Vanden Bussche sales rep about the best way to flush out the system.
  • Mild acid solutions (bicarbonates and chlorine) applied in moderation remove algae and slime.
     

Choose Vanden Bussche Irrigation for Quality Landscaping Subsurface Drip Systems

Where to buy irrigation supplies near me?

At Vanden Bussche Irrigation, we offer Rain Bird subsurface fittings and other great products that you can use to install subsurface drip systems for your clients. Since 1954, we have strived to provide quality irrigation resources and consulting services focused on environmentally friendly and effective products. Browse through our entire catalogue for more information.

Contact us today for more information on the pros and cons of landscaping subsurface drip systems or any of our other irrigation solutions.

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