Greenhouse watering systems help keep your plants in top condition. It’s vitally important for plants grown in a greenhouse to receive the proper amount of water, regardless of outdoor weather conditions. When you use one of these types of systems to water your plants, you will also greatly improve your efficiency level. Since you no longer have to worry about manually watering the plants, you can focus more of your efforts on other aspects of care for your greenhouse.
There are several types of systems that greenhouse owners can buy to help automate the watering process. Self watering systems use a carefully-controlled amount of water to ensure that plants receive neither too much or too little. These work very well when you’re on holiday. Capillary watering systems are also quite convenient to use. They work by allowing the plants to absorb water directly through their root systems, and may include a reservoir that can be refilled automatically. Drip systems are very simple to set up and operate. Steady drips from tubing installed around the greenhouse help keep the plants moist. Spray or misting systems continue to be some of the most popular. These are well-favored because they can be automated, as needed.
Choosing The Right Greenhouse Watering Systems
Not all irrigation systems are ideal for all kinds of plants. A common mistake that many greenhouse owners make is excessively watering plants that actually have minimal watering requirements. Capillary and drip systems work well for plants that have very high water requirements. However, it helps to make sure that the plants have good drainage. Even plants that like a lot of water can become over-watered. Spray or misting systems that can be automated are also good choices for plants that take a lot of water. If you keep plants that require less water, you may wish to have an area of the greenhouse that isn’t connected to the rest of the irrigation system.
You may want to consider whether using timers is practical for you. If you frequently have to be away from your greenhouse when the plants requiring watering, timers can make things easier. Your plants will be watered on time every day. If you will be on holiday for several days, it’s helpful to have someone look in on your plants. One downside to automating your watering process is that your plants could end up with too much water. If someone is available to supervise how much water your plants are getting, this will ensure that your system works the way it’s supposed to.
Some Other Practical Considerations
There are a few other things to consider when purchasing greenhouse watering systems. One is the cost, which will vary according to each person’s requirements. A person who grows greenhouse plants as a hobby will have different requirements from a commercial grower. A smaller water reservoir for a capillary watering system may cost as little as $9 AUD. Some kits that are used to set up overhead spray or misting systems retail for as little as $88. Another cost that must be taken into account is professional installation, when required. Many people simply aren’t comfortable installing such a system themselves.
Another issue that must be kept in mind with any system is proper drainage and ventilation. Spray systems can frequently create puddles that may be all over the greenhouse. Standing water can make the floor slippery and also attract mosquitoes, which can be a major nuisance. This can also create problems during colder weather, by lowering the inside temperature too much. Make sure you have a good drainage solution before installing any watering system. You also want to make sure that a proper level of humidity is maintained. The greenhouse’s ventilation system can help with this. It’s also possible to install equipment that monitors humidity levels.