Home
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are the Different Types of Plant Waterer?

Erin J. Hill
Erin J. Hill

Most plant waterer systems have the same main parts, which usually include a water line and system of spigots. The delivery method with each is different, though, and can include sprinkler, mist, and drip systems. Each method is generally used for a specific kind of plant or garden.

A sprinkler system is often used as an outdoor system, and generally is the best choice for watering lawns, bushes, and other landscaping plants. This plant waterer system works by implementing a main water line that is attached to several spigots placed into the ground at various locations. The head of each spigot is about an inch above the ground, and it sprays water in streams in one or more directions.

Woman with a flower
Woman with a flower

Another type of plant waterer is the misting system. This type uses the same pipe and spigot method as the sprinkler variety, but instead of spraying water in streams, it mists it lightly over the plants. Misting systems are often used in greenhouses and plant retail centers to provide a more steady flow of water that won’t drown the plants.

Drip plant waterer methods use spigots that provide only small drips of water at one time. This has two main benefits. The first is that the plants receive water more slowly and have more time to absorb it. This uses and wastes less water than other systems. Secondly, there is less risk of over saturating the plants.

Despite these advanced plant waterer methods used by farmers, greenhouse attendants, and amateur planters, some people still prefer to water plants manually. This is done using either a garden hose or basic watering piture. Although it may take more work, this method, all in all, uses less water. Less water means lower utility costs. Manual watering also allows the person to see exactly how much water each plant is getting, so over saturation isn’t as big a problem.

Most advance watering systems are installed by a licensed installer or landscaping technician. There are some models that are made for homeowner installation, but they tend to be less effective for watering larger areas than a professionally installed system. In some cases, a homeowner may install a more complex system using instructions from a book or website instructional. This is done at the risk of the homeowner, however, and quality results are not guaranteed.

Plant waterer systems are generally recommended where manual watering is not feasible. Farms, greenhouses, retail centers, larger flower beds, and lawns all may need specialized watering systems to get the nourishment they need. Costs for these systems vary widely based on type, quality, and location.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Woman with a flower
      Woman with a flower