Habanero said:
So, back in line with the original question.. do you have to have separate valves for every zone?
Mastiff, for the trees I was thinking of putting the drip about 2 feet away from the base, I've heard I shouldn't put them right on the tree stump. Any ideas why that is?
Yep, seperate zones need seperate valves. Is this an automatic system or manual?
This is how it should start out:
Main water line ---- Main shut off valve ---- Backflow prevention --- Tee's to your 4 zones --- 4 valves
(If you have an automatic system, each of the 4 "control" valves will be electrically manipulated from the system panel)
Oh, and yeah, you don't want a constant drip on one spot of a tree, it can harm the bark or root. But on a new tree, you want it away so the roots have to "reach" for the water.
I always suggest planting a tree in this manner:
- Dig the hole about 1 1/2 time the size needed for the ball.
- Line the bottom of the hole with round rock (3/4" over gravel)
- Place the tree (Never grab it by the trunk... get underneath it)
- Place a piece of 2" PVC pipe beside the tree ball in the hole from the gravel to above ground.
- Backfill and create a soil "ring" around the tree
- Fill the "ring" with mulch (Straw works)
Then when you water the first year, stick a hose in the pipe and get water to the roots. (It also gets them air) This way, the tree roots head down for the water instead of to the surface...
Go here:
http://www.irrigationtutorials.com
I don't know Jess personally, but he's an L.A. registered in your area, and he really knows his stuff. All you wanted to know, and then some.