Three Benefits of Drip Irrigation

Photograph 053 by lauren mancke

To drip or not to drip…. That is the question! Drip irrigation has been around for a while, yet many properties are hesitant to make the switch. As we continue to see water costs rise and more towns implement commercial watering guidelines, we believe drip irrigation is a vital component for commercial landscapes. 

Water Efficiency and Cost Savings

Drip irrigation can be up to 80% more efficient than regular spray routers and rotors. In fact, when the DFW metroplex was under drought regulations several years ago, drip was exempt from watering restrictions because it is so efficient. As water costs continue to rise, drip is becoming a key component of cost saving strategies for commercial properties. 

Because drip is right at the surface of the plants, certain environmental factors such as wind and runoff are eradicated. You have total control over how much you need to water with little evaporation, no overspray, and no running water. 

Visual Appeal

If you’ve ever had to plan your color beds around a sprinkler head, you know how much they can affect the visual appeal of your landscape. Drip irrigation, on the other hand, becomes virtually invisible when covered with mulch. It not only makes your plant beds look better, it provides visual appeal for the surrounding landscape – no more wet sidewalks (or worse, wet residents) while the irrigation system is running! 

Healthier Plants 

Flowers have shallow roots and need constant watering. Unfortunately, sprinkler heads are not consistent. Watering is affected by wind, location, and other factors. 

Drip irrigation, on the other hand, delivers the consistent water that plants need at the exact spot they need it. This irrigation method also helps avoid erosion by keeping plant roots intact. The result: healthier plants that are better equipped to withstand Texas heat and wind. 

Worth the Investment

Drip irrigation can provide significant long-term savings in water and landscaping costs over time. While it is a significant up-front investment, many of our clients see both immediate and long term benefits that make drip irrigation worthwhile.

To find out if drip irrigation is right for your property, contact your Earthworks representative or give us a call at 817-477-3910.