Guide to Dripline Irrigation Systems

Drip irrigation is one of the most efficient and low-cost methods for watering crops, particularly in small-scale gardens, raised beds, polytunnels, and allotments. It delivers water directly to the root zone of plants through a network of pipes and emitters, minimising water waste and promoting healthier growth.

Why Use Drip Irrigation?

Installing a dripline system offers several key benefits:

Improved plant health: Consistent moisture levels at the root zone support stronger and more uniform plant growth.
Efficient water use: Reduces evaporation and deep leaching, ensuring water goes exactly where it’s needed.
Fewer weeds: Since only the crop rows are watered, surrounding soil stays dry, limiting weed germination.
Reduced nutrient loss: Prevents over-watering and runoff, helping retain fertiliser in the root zone.
Lower disease risk: Keeps foliage dry, minimising fungal and bacterial infections.
Compatible with low-pressure systems: Ideal for use with rainwater harvesting tanks.
Time-saving: Systems can be automated with a timer, reducing labour and scheduling worries.
Cost-effective: Affordable to install and maintain with minimal running costs.

Planning Your System

Before installation, careful planning will ensure your system works efficiently:

Assess water pressure and flow: Ensure your supply (tap, tank, or well) can handle the size of your system.
Draw a layout: Sketch your growing area, marking out beds and noting where crops will be planted.
Measure your beds: Accurately record the length and width of each bed to calculate pipe lengths.

What You’ll Need

Water filter: Essential if using rain or well water to prevent clogging from sediment.
Timer (optional): Enables automatic watering for consistent irrigation.
Supply pipe (LDPE): Delivers water from the source to the dripper lines. Available in 16mm & 20mm.
Inline dripper hose: Contains integrated emitters spaced 33/35cm or 50cm apart. 2L/h flow rate.
Connectors: Elbows, tees, and joiners used to customise layout. Barbed or lock nut fittings available.
Inline valves: Allow control of individual zones or bed sections.
U pins: Galvanised steel pins to secure piping to the ground.

Lock Nut vs Barbed Irrigation Fittings

Watch our video for a detailed comparison of lock nut and barbed irrigation fittings, including the pros and cons of each type, and assembly instructions.

How to Install a Drip Irrigation System

Connect to the water source
Attach a water filter and timer (optional) to your tap or water tank outlet.
Connect Supply pipe
It’s handy to use GEKA brass fittings (2 x female coupling ¾”) to allow quick disconnection for cleaning the filter and for removing the filter and/or timer - they are both sensitive to frost damage so should be drained and brought inside during the winter months.
Lay the supply pipe
Run this along the main pathways to reach each bed. Cut and shape as needed using elbows and tees.
Attach dripper hose
Connect inline dripper hose to the supply pipe at each bed, laying it alongside plant rows.
Install inline valves (optional)
Add valves where necessary to isolate specific zones.
Secure the piping
Use U pins to keep the pipes in place and prevent shifting.
Flush and test the system
Turn on the system to check for leaks or blockages. Ensure even water distribution from each emitter.

Tips for Success

Even distribution: Use pressure-compensating drippers for consistent flow in long or sloped beds.
Maintenance: Clean filters regularly and flush lines at the start and end of each season.
Winter care: Drain the system before freezing weather to prevent pipe damage.

Common Issues and Fixes

Uneven watering: Check for pressure loss or blocked emitters. Use shorter runs or pressure-compensating hose.
Clogged emitters: Clean filter and flush system regularly.
Low flow: Ensure tank elevation provides adequate pressure, or consider a booster pump.