How to Install Drip Irrigation

Drip irrigation is an efficient alternative to hand watering that delivers water to individual plant roots, either through a network of pipes or tubes or onto the surface of the soil. Learn how to install drip irrigation in this Lowe’s video:

A soaker hose is a cheaper, simpler type of irrigation, but is more wasteful and less precise than an irrigation kit. You can make a simple soaker by drilling holes into a hose.

To install an irrigation kit:

1. Mark your drip system path with stakes and string.

2. Dig a shallow trench with a trenching shovel. Check that the trench is deep enough to bury the main line.

3. Attach the backflow preventer and pressure regulator to line and faucet.

4. Punch holes in the 1/2-inch tube where you will attach branches.

5. Use couplers to attach the 1/4-inch branches to the main line.

6. Attach an on-off valve between branch lines and drip lines.

7. Connect drip lines to the valves.

8. Clip stakes to the drip lines and insert stakes near plant roots.

9. Flush all the lines to remove dirt and debris.

10. Crimp or cap all of your lines.

11. Bury your main line and cover with mulch.

12. Install a timer on the faucet if desired.