Can You Bury Drip Irrigation Lines? Pros & Cons

Drip irrigation systems are a popular and effective way to water plants and crops while conserving water. They deliver water directly to the roots of plants, reducing evaporation and runoff.

However, one question often arises when installing a drip irrigation system: Can you bury drip irrigation lines?

Yes, you can bury drip irrigation lines. The lines should be buried at least 6 inches deep to protect them from external damage.

In this blog, we will explore the pros and cons of burying drip irrigation lines and provide helpful tips for installation and maintenance.

Table of Contents

What Does Drip Irrigation Lines Mean?

Drip irrigation lines are tubes or pipes used in drip irrigation systems to deliver water to plants slowly and steadily. The lines are typically made of flexible tubing and are punctured with small holes or emitters that release water directly into the soil.

Typically, drip lines are designed to conserve water by delivering precise amounts of water to the plant roots over time, reducing water waste and promoting healthy plant growth. Drip irrigation systems can include timers, pressure regulators, fittings, valves, and drip tape to control the rate and duration of water delivery. However, if you’ve been confused about drip vs. spray irrigation, you should get some idea about these.

Can You Bury Drip Irrigation Lines?

Yes, drip irrigation lines can be buried underground. In fact, burying the drip lines can be beneficial in several ways. It can help protect the lines from damage by animals, equipment, or weather, and maintain a more consistent soil moisture level by minimizing water evaporation.

However, burying the drip lines requires careful planning and installation. The tubing should be buried at a depth that allows for adequate water penetration into the soil while avoiding damage to the tubing.

Additionally, pressure regulators, fittings, and valves should be installed above ground for easy access and maintenance. It is important to note that burying the drip lines may require more time and effort to install than an above-ground system, but the benefits can be well worth the extra effort.

Pros and Cons of Burying Drip Irrigation Lines

When installing a drip irrigation system, homeowners can bury the drip lines underground or leave them above ground. Here are the pros and cons of burying drip irrigation lines.

Pros

Protection: Buried drip irrigation lines are protected from damage caused by external factors such as foot traffic, lawnmowers, and other garden tools. Burying the tubing also protects it from damage caused by exposure to sunlight, which can cause it to deteriorate over time.
Aesthetics: Buried drip irrigation lines are hidden from view, providing a clean and uncluttered look to the landscape. This makes them ideal for use in formal gardens or areas where visual appearance is important.
Efficiency: Buried drip irrigation lines are more efficient in delivering water to plants as there is no water loss due to evaporation or wind drift. This results in significant water savings and reduced water bills.
Even Water Distribution: When drip lines are buried, water is distributed evenly and directly to the plant roots. This results in better plant growth and higher yields.

Cons

Time-consuming: Burying drip irrigation lines requires more time and effort than leaving them above ground. This is because trenches must be dug, and the lines must be laid out and secured properly.
Difficulty in Detecting Leaks: Buried drip lines can be difficult to detect leaks in, which can result in water wastage and damage to the plant’s root system. Therefore, installing pressure regulators and valves to monitor and control water flow is important.
Cost: Burying drip irrigation lines can be more expensive than leaving them above ground. This is because additional materials such as fittings, pipes, and devices may be required, and digging trenches can add to the cost.

Factors to Consider Before Burying Drip Irrigation Lines

Drip irrigation is an efficient way to water plants by delivering water directly to the roots. Before burying drip irrigation lines, several factors need to be considered before burying drip irrigation lines to ensure proper installation and optimal performance.

Soil Type and Water Flow

The soil type can affect the water flow rate in the drip lines. Sandy soil allows water to flow more quickly, while clay soil may slow water movement. Understanding the soil type and water flow rate can help determine the right amount of water to deliver to plants.

Water Source and Pressure

The water source and pressure are crucial before installing a drip irrigation system. The system requires enough water pressure to distribute water evenly across the plants. A pressure regulator may be necessary to adjust the water pressure and ensure consistent watering.

Type of Drip Lines and Emitters

Different drip lines and emitters are available, each with varying water flow rates and delivery methods. The type of plants being watered and their watering needs will dictate the choice of drip lines and emitters. Pre-installed emitters, pressure-compensating emitters, and inline emitters are some options available.

Fittings and Pipes

Fittings and pipes connect the drip lines and emitters, making it essential to choose the right size and material for the system. The fittings and pipes should also be durable and withstand the elements.

Timing and Duration of Watering

Plants require different amounts of water depending on their type and growth stage. The drip irrigation system should be set up to water the plants at the appropriate time and duration to avoid under or overwatering.

Placement of Drip Lines

The placement of the drip lines should be strategic to ensure even water distribution across the plants. Above-ground and buried drip lines have different installation requirements, and the choice will depend on the plants’ watering needs.

Installation of Buried Drip Irrigation Lines

Drip irrigation systems are an efficient way to water plants while minimizing water waste. Buried drip irrigation lines provide the added benefit of keeping the system out of sight. Here are the steps to install buried drip irrigation lines:

Plan the System: Determine the area to be irrigated, plant spacing, and the amount of water required for each plant. Plan the tubing layout, ensuring the mainline connects to the water source and the drip tubing runs to each plant.
Prepare the Area: Clear the area of weeds and debris. If the soil is compacted, loosen it to allow water to penetrate the soil.
Lay the Tubing: Lay the mainline tubing along the length of the planting bed. Connect the drip tubing to the mainline tubing, running it to each plant. Secure the tubing with stakes or pins.
Install Emitters: Insert the drip emitters into the tubing at each plant location. Emitters are available at various flow rates to deliver the right amount of water to each plant.
Install a Valve and Timer: Install a valve to control the water flow and a timer to automate the system. A pressure regulator may be needed to reduce water pressure and prevent tubing damage.
Cover the Tubing: Cover the tubing with soil, ensuring it is buried at least 6 inches deep. Avoid burying the emitters, as they need to be exposed to deliver water to the plant roots.
Test the System: Turn on the water source and test the system for leaks and proper water distribution. Make any necessary adjustments to the emitters or tubing.
Maintain the System: Regularly check the system for leaks, clogs, and damage. Adjust the timer as needed to deliver the right amount of water for each plant.

Maintenance of Buried Drip Irrigation Lines

Like any irrigation system, drip systems require maintenance to ensure proper operation and maximum water efficiency. Here are some key tips for maintaining buried drip irrigation lines:

Inspect and Clean the System: Regularly inspect the drip irrigation system to ensure it works correctly. Check for leaks, clogged emitters, and broken fittings. Clear any debris that may have accumulated on the system, including leaves and dirt.
Monitor Water Pressure: Maintain proper water pressure to ensure the system functions correctly. Check the water pressure at the water source, and use pressure regulators to regulate water flow to the drip lines. High water pressure can cause leaks and emitter blowouts, while low pressure can affect the system’s performance.
Replace Fittings and Pipes: Check for cracked or broken fittings and pipes, and replace them as needed. Damaged fittings can lead to leaks, while broken pipes can cause water loss and flooding.
Check the Timer: Regularly check the timer to ensure it is set and functioning correctly. Adjust the timing as necessary to meet the watering needs of the plants.
Check Soil Moisture Levels: Regularly check the soil moisture levels to ensure the plants receive the proper water. Sandy soil requires more frequent watering than clay soil, for example. Adjust watering rates accordingly.

Final Words

The answer to the question, “Can you bury drip irrigation lines?” is yes. It is possible to safely bury drip irrigation lines underground as long as the proper steps are taken. This includes considering the type of soil, the weather, and the water source used.

However, you should ensure that the drip irrigation lines are accurately buried and properly secured. If done correctly, burying drip irrigation lines can be a great way to save water and money while creating a more efficient irrigation system.