Soaker hoses deliver water directly to the soil beneath your landscape, maintaining a moist root zone while reducing runoff. Using soaker hoses is an easy way to reduce watering times and increase efficiency on your property. Soaker hoses are underground irrigation systems that have small holes spaced out along the length of the hose. They can be buried or covered with mulch, turf, rocks, or any other natural material. There are many different types of best soaker hose, but they all follow the same principle: Water is released slowly through tiny holes at regular intervals along the entire length of the pipe.
How a Soaker Hose Works
Soaker hoses are a type of drip irrigation system that uses a slow drip method, providing water directly to plants’ roots. The soaker hose has small holes along its length, through which water flows. A typical soaker hose is 1/2 or 5/8-inch diameter and made of black polyethylene (plastic) covered with a rubber-like material. There is a filter inside that keeps large particles out. Some soaker hoses have a pressure regulator to prevent over-watering and a filter cap at the end that can be opened to clean the filter.
A soaker hose is laid out on the ground along with a perforated pipe (made of metal or plastic) that directs water from the hose underground to multiple areas, thus creating a network of watering spots. Soaker hoses are usually laid under mulch, a border of stones, or another cover. Soaker hoses can be laid directly on the ground, but they are more susceptible to damage from foot traffic and rodents. They are best laid on a pathway, such as gravel, bricks, or pavers.
Why Use a Soaker Hose?
Soaker hoses are an efficient and cost-effective way to irrigate your landscape. They are best used in areas with sandy soil that tends to dry out or floods, such as around the base of trees, shrubs, or other low-growing plants. Soaker hoses are a great tool to help you water in between rain events, particularly in drought-prone areas. They are less likely to cause flooding or run-off than a sprinkler system. Soaker hoses are generally easier to install than a larger drip irrigation system, which may involve digging or hiring an irrigation professional.
How to Install a Soaker Hose
If you are using a soaker hose for the first time, test it out before installing it permanently. Stretch it out along the ground, turn on the water, and make sure the water is running through the holes. If you are installing a new soaker hose, dig a trench at least 6 inches deep. Place the soaker hose in the trench and cover it with soil. If you are using a soaker hose on a pathway, cover it with a layer of decorative stones. Make sure to place the soaker hose along the contours of the landscape, avoiding places where water will pool or run off.
Tips for Using Soaker Hoses
– Choose the right size soaker hose – When choosing a soaker hose, consider the flow rate and length of the hose. Larger diameter hoses can deliver more water and may require a larger pressure regulator.
– Place your soaker hose on a pathway – If you need to lay your soaker hose on the ground, consider placing it on a pathway, such as gravel bricks, or pavers, to protect the hose from damage.
– Cover the soaker hose – If you are placing the soaker hose on the ground, cover it with organic material such as mulch, wood chips, or gravel to protect it from foot traffic and rodents.
– Avoid placing it in the sun – The sun’s heat can cause the soaker hose to expand and crack, so keep it out of direct sunlight.
– Keep it off the grass – It is tempting to place your soaker hose directly on the grass, but it could cause root damage.
Where to Place Your Soaker Hoses
Test your soil type to determine the best place to install your soaker hoses. Sandy soil drains quickly, so it is best to place your soaker hoses around the base of trees and shrubs, if possible. If you have clay soil, which holds water, it is best to place your soaker hoses in low-lying areas, such as a border between your lawn and a pathway.
