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Choosing the Proper Sprinkler
The Key to A Green Lawn
by Roman Blahoski
When it comes to watering your lawn, it is important to have the
proper sprinkler. There are six general types available: impulse,
oscillating, rotary, stationary, hose and traveling sprinklers.
The right sprinkler for your lawn depends on three key factors:
the size and layout of the yard, soil type and the ideal rate of
water flow.
Impulse sprinklers have a single water jet that sits close to the
ground. They are durable and less likely to clog compared to other
types of sprinklers. Impulse sprinklers distribute water evenly
over a large area in a circular or semi-circular pattern.
Oscillating sprinklers spray many jets of water from a long tube
and when in use, the water tends to look like a fan. They can water
large areas quickly in a rectangular or square pattern and the area
of distribution can be adjusted on most models. The gentle spray
of an oscillating sprinkler is ideal for newly seeded areas and
clay soils that absorb water slowly.
Rotary sprinklers consist of a spinning unit with two or three arms
that have water jets on the ends. Also called spinning sprinklers,
they lay down water quickly, generally at a rate of one inch per
hour. Rotary sprinklers generally have a low distribution radius
and would work well on smaller lawns and gardens.
Stationary sprinklers are usually the least expensive and come in
ring or “salt shaker” styles. They are low to the ground
and distribute water unevenly in a circular pattern. Although they
can work with low water pressure, stationary sprinklers have a low
throw radius and are not recommended for larger yards.
Sprinkler hoses have a low flow rate and work well for long, awkward
shaped or sloped lawns, but can be somewhat difficult to set up
for even coverage. As hose sprinklers age, they can begin to form
creases, which can affect water pressure and area of distribution.
Another type of hose sprinkler is the soaker hose, which is normally
installed semi-permanently in planting beds under a layer of mulch.
Traveling sprinklers follow the garden hose or a guideline on wheels
attached to the base. Two rotating arms spray water in a circular
pattern as the sprinkler follows its guide and these arms can be
adjusted to vary the diameter of the spray circle. Also called self-propelled
sprinklers, they water large irregular patterns over the course
of several hours and are ideal for long alleys of lawn. If you choose
this type, make sure it has an automatic shut off valve.
Roman Blahoski has worked in the home products industry for several
years. He previously served as irrigation and grounds keeping consultant
to several Midwest golf clubs.
Choosing a Hose
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