Watering Systems

Question 1

Manual systems

Answer 1

Watering can.

Hoses and lance.

Question 2

Capillary system.

Answer 2

Water will move upward, through a series of fine pores within a substance.

Sand used to be used as the capillary material.

Capillary matting, made from woven polyester is now used, it is light, easy to handle and holds about 2 - 3 litres per square metre. One end can be placed in a tray of water.

Question 3

Spray system.

Answer 3

Water sprayed from overhead nozzles.

Used commercially, not suitable for small greenhouses.

Question 4

Drip feed system.

Answer 4

Delivers to each plant via some form of hosing a regular supply water.
Good for plants sold in pots.
Pressure regulators lower mains water pressure.
Nozzles can usually be adjusted to regulate the water supply.

Ceramic cones can be attached to hosing and pushed in to compost - as compost dries out it draws water up from the cone by osmosis, supplying plants.

Question 5

Seep hose.

Answer 5

Suitable for plants grown in a border.

Question 6

Automatic controls.

Answer 6

Timers - turns the water supply on or off fro a period of time or until a volume of water has been released.

Sensors - turn water supply on or off depending on compost moisture content or humidity.