Traditionally drip irrigation has been thought of as a product for arid climates.  After all, the earliest applications were for growing crops in desert regions.

Drip has traditionally been used in desert landscapes, but is quickly becoming popular nationwide due to the plant benefits and water savings.

Today drip systems are being used effectively to water landscape plants and vegetable gardens from Maine to California, promoting more blooms and greater yields regardless of local rainfall. Raindrip “Water Wise” systems are a must for all drought-sensitive areas.

If you live where it freezes, you will need to prepare your drip system for winter before the first hard freeze.

Winterizing Your System

• Turn off the main water supply source (valve or faucet) that supplies your drip system.

• For each drip line, remove the threaded end caps to drain any remaining water. Allow gravity to drain all of the water out of all of the tubing. You can assist gravity by lifting the lines at the mid point to help the water drain out.

• If the drip system is connected to a hose faucet, disconnect the system from the faucet to allow the frostproof feature on the faucet to drain. You can disconnect and store the timer and filter/regulator in a garage or shed for the winter months. Remove timer battery prior to storage.