When it comes to establishing a lush and thriving lawn, watering plays a pivotal role, especially after hydroseeding or laying down sod. Adequate water supply during this critical phase is essential to promote healthy root growth and overall plant development. While some properties might have built-in irrigation systems, many homeowners face the challenge of finding effective watering solutions without one. Fortunately, there are options available to meet these needs, and one such solution is the DIY irrigation system, which offers a cost-effective and efficient approach to keeping your lawn well-hydrated. By investing in the right equipment and following some practical tips, you can achieve the perfect balance of moisture for your lawn, paving the way for a picturesque, vibrant, and resilient landscape.
Items needed:
Melnor 2 zone or 4 zone garden hose timer (only buy melnor and don’t get Bluetooth or wifi timers!!)
Varying lengths of garden hose depending on size and distance
Sprinklers (read below Rotor sprinklers recommended)
DIY videos below
Rotor Sprinklers:
¾” rotor sprinkler (Rainbird or hunter)
The Rain Bird 5000 series rotor gives you Gear Drive Rotor Sprinkler Technology! This smooth and quiet rotor drive sprinkler features an even water pattern with a gentle rain curtain, interchangeable nozzles, and "leak free" seals to avoid puddling at the sprinkler. The Rain Bird 3/4" Rotor Sprinkler works well at low pressures and is a great watering source for any residential lawn or garden. It is also a great choice for indoor and outdoor horse arenas for dust suppression!! With the rotor sprinkler, you can have it all -- uncompromising performance, superior distribution, reliability and durability. Rain Curtain™ nozzles maximize performance and coverage. The included nozzle set gives you the ability to adjust from 1 GPM to 10 GPM. A multi-function wiper seal and tapered riser keep the stem clear of debris, providing long-term protection. Plus, heavy-duty construction makes this rotor one of the toughest in the field. Spray distances up to 100 feet in diameter!
Sprinklers will spray up to 80ft diameter. They have a 360-degree head that can be adjusted with an irrigation tool 1gpm-10gpm
These will need a stand you can build one or buy one.
You can Build a PVC stand or use a ¾” spike stand (you will need a ¾” male to male adapter to attach rotor stand)
https://www.bigsprinkler.com/catalog/lawn-garden/heavy-duty-sled-base-sprinklers
Impact sprinklers
The Maxi-Bird 2045-PJ 1/2" Impulse Sprinkler operates in a full or part circle mode. This is a great general use sprinkler that provides excellent coverage in a variety of residential lawn or garden applications. Includes a nozzle set that will accommodate a flow range of 1.5 to 8.4 gallons per minute and covers up to 88 feet in diameter.
https://www.bigsprinkler.com/catalog/lawn-garden/heavy-duty-sled-base-sprinklers
DIY Sprinkler stand build.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdK35zRAIto
DIY sprinkler system set up See links below.
DIY Rotor sprinkler adjustment
For rotor sprinklers you can adjust the sprinkler GPM flow by replacing the nozzles with smaller size ones. The lower the GPM the more sprinklers per zone you can get but the longer you will need to water because sprinkler nozzles normally increase or decrease by 1gpm. 1-10 nozzles normally come with each sprinkler. Avg garden hose spigots have a flow of 4-6 GPM make sure not to exceed the GPM of your spigot! Pressure will vary in different parts of the FM area the more pressure you have the farther your sprinklers will spray.
Regardless of whether your property has an established irrigation system, the DIY irrigation system offers a practical and accessible solution for all homeowners. So, whether you're nurturing a freshly hydroseeded lawn or reviving your existing one with sod, proper watering is within reach with the right tools and know-how. A well-watered lawn not only enhances the beauty of your property but also contributes to the health and vitality of your plants, ultimately providing you with an oasis of greenery and tranquility to enjoy for years to come.
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