Subsurface irrigation

echinopora says...
I'm using deep pipe irrigation on my trellised orchard. I have 2 l/h drippers on 13mm poly pipe running on the lowest wire of the trellis. The toro drippers have a nipple to attach 4mm poly onto. The 4mm poly is then "plugged" into a 30cm length of bamboo that is stuck into the ground near the base of the tree. If the bamboo clogs I just grab a new piece. This keeps all the important bits out of the ground, allows for fertigation, and deep waters to encourage deeper root structure. In the front orchard I am using deep wicks. Basically a 25l jug (I collect them from pool supply places on rubbish day) with a 13mm barb adaptor screwed into the bung hole and 40cm of old garden hose onto that. Thread some old scabby poly rope into the garden hose and then use a hose clamp to regulate flow. These can be installed at planting or later on with an auger bit for a power drill. I have the hose ending 30cm under the surface and the rope 30cm after that. You can't fertigate with this set up but each one costs about 3 bucks. You can regulate down to about a liter a week if you tighten the clamp right down. No problems with either clogging yet. The jug system is great for starting trees and encouraging deep roots.