MAKING A DIY GARDEN SOAKER HOSE
S prinklers and irrigation systems can be overkill for some yard areas. A solution? A soaker hose, which can deliver just the right amount of moisture without wasting water.
“A soaker hose is a porous hose, with perforations along its length, that is used for slow and efficient delivery of water to plants’ root systems,” explains Andre Kazimierski, CEO of Improovy in Chicago. “Pores in the hose allow water to slowly be deposited at the base of plants, flowers, trees, or wherever it is positioned.”
The secret weapon at work is the tiny holes throughout the hose. “This allows water to seep out slowly and evenly at low pressure. The water more efficiently reaches the base of the plant, allowing roots to absorb moisture more quickly,” notes Chris Alexakis, a home improvement professional.
This low-pressure flow is crucial during the primary stages of foliage growth. “It will not cause any soil eradication, giving seedlings a superior advantage of laying down strong and healthy roots,” says Della Parker, outdoor living expert at yardandgardenrescue.com.
A soaker hose is an excellent alternative to drip irrigation, per Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love in San Diego, “because it works similarly but doesn’t require the complicated setup. Plus, it’s portable.”
Alexakis recommends identifying your soil type and plant species before putting down a soaker, as some need more water than others.
“For new plants, flowers, or vegetables, lay the hose in a straight row close to the plant if they are planted in a line. For grown plants, lay the hose two inches from the plant’s stem,” advises Alexakis.
Be aware that the rubber in a soaker hose is prone to early disintegration, so try to avoid laying out a soaker hose in direct sunlight for extended periods. And while soaker hoses are sold at home improvement stores and garden centers, you can make your own with a few household tools in mere minutes.
“Simply take a normal garden hose and, with either a basic diamond-tipped carpenter nail or a 3/64 drill bit and drill, puncture the hose through both sides every 2 and 1/3 to 3 inches, starting at least a foot away from the female end of the hose,” explains Parker. “Test it out and adjust the pressure flow appropriately.”
Don’t expect your store-bought or DIY soaker hose to last forever. “You likely need to replace a soaker hose after two years,” Alexakis notes.