How To Build A Drip Irrigation System For Under $100

http://thewrinkleddollar.com/garden/diy-drip-irrigation-system/

A drip irrigation system can save you time, money and conserve water. This drip irrigation system can be turned on and left to do its job without you having to stand over it to monitor its progress. Using water wisely with a drip irrigation system will produce a garden that will supply you with fresh vegetables for your family. Recently, I planted a garden in my backyard but was spending a lot of time and effort keeping it watered. My step-dad had built several drip irrigation systems from PVC pipe in his yard so with his help we built a drip irrigation system for my garden. Total cost of supplies was under $50 for a garden 15 ft x 15 ft. Approximate time to build this system was about 5 hours including the pick up of supplies. Below are the steps we took to build this system.

I would like to thank my Step-Dad for his help with this project. Thanks Dad!!

Step 1
Measure your garden plot. You will need PVC pipe for each row of your garden. We used a 3/4″ PVC pipe for the main line running down one side of the garden and then attached 1/2″ PVC pipe (with T connectors) at each row using PVC cement. For each row you will need 1/2″ PVC pipe, one (1) “T” connector (not threaded) and one (1) End Cap. PVC couples will also be needed if you need to join more than 1 section of 1/2″ PVC pipe to extend the length of the row. (See list of supplies at the end of these instructions)

Step 2
Start at the end of your 3/4″ PVC main line and attach a Elbow Couple or an End Cap can be used here. Then with a hacksaw cut your 3/4″ PVC pipe at the first row. Attach your “T” connector using PVC cement. Do this at each row. Keep your “T” connectors as level as possible to help maintain your flow of water. Do not attach your 1/2″ PVC drip pipe at this time. You will do this later.

Note: When attaching PVC pipe to the “T” connector, slightly sand paper the cut ends of the 1/2″ pipe to help join the pieces to the PVC “T” connector.

Step 3
After all “T” connectors have been attached, measure your 1/2″ PVC drip pipe for your rows. If you need additional sections your can join the pipes using PVC 1/2″ couples and PVC cement. Adjust the pipe length to fit each row and add an 1/2″ End Cap to close the pipe at the end of each row section.