by Kristy Stevens-Young

Created on: July 12, 2008

Soaker Hoses are a very basic, very efficient, watering option. They have millions of tiny holes along the length and circumference of the hose from which the water slowly seeps out and into the soil. There is little, or no, evaporation into the air, so you use less water than you would using a regular garden hose. While they are relatively simple to use, there are a few things to consider to ensure you purchase the one that is best suited for your needs.

How Much Length Do You Need?

Since a soaker hoses work by slowly soaking the soil, it is important that the hose have a constant, steady water drip. When you go over 50 feet, you start getting uneven water distribution, with some areas getting soaked and other areas barely getting wet.

Since many garden beds and other areas where a soaker hose is beneficial cover more than 50 feet, your best bed is to place a few 50 foot soaker hoses out as opposed to one longer 150 foot one.

What Will The Soaker Hose Be Watering?

Using a soaker hose to water gardens beds differs from using one to water trees and shrubs. With gardens, the water will need to go down to a depth of 6-8 inches as opposed to the 8-12 inches needed by trees and shrubs.

The best way to know how long to leave on the soaker hose is to test it in 20 minute intervals. Let it run for 20 minutes, turn it off and check how deep the water has soaked in. If it hasn't reached the level need: try another 20 minutes until it reaches the correct depth.

How Will The Soaker Hose Be Laid Out?

Soaker hoses are laid flat on top of the soil and are then covered with a light layer of mulch. They can be placed in a straight or "snaked" pattern through the plantings.

The water with spread out sideways 16-24 inches (depending on the hose) and so you will need to lay it out so the areas don't over lap. Since the hose should not be placed within 2 inches of the plant base, you will need to measure the area carefully to ensure the soaker hose can be laid out correctly.

What Type of Soil Do you Have?

If your soil is very sandy, soaker hoses may not work well for you as the water has a tendency to go straight down, with very little sideways watering. To use a hose in sandy soil conditions, you will need to adjust the spacing and lay the hose lines closer, between 9-12 inches. To tell how far it they need to be placed. Sit the hose directly on top of the soil (no mulch on top) and turn it on for 20 minutes. Check how far out the water penetrated and lay the hose out accordingly. Be sure

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