MIL-HDBK-1165
its desired watering function. For example, low-flow heads
should be used in areas with flowers, trees and shrubs, while
higher flow heads should be used for turf (where the water must
be sprayed over its target area). Some low-flow heads are
referred to as "bubblers" because the water is bubbled rather
than sprayed.
Another option is drip irrigation. Drip irrigation
delivers the water through small diameter tubes connected to
pressure-compensating nozzles called emitters. Some emitters can
be buried below ground (sub-surface) with their tips located
slightly above grade to produce the water drip or trickle. Water
flow is reduced from the normal gallons per minute used by
traditional sprinkler heads to gallons per hour. A simplified
version of drip irrigation is the "soaker" hose. A soaker hose
looks like a garden hose but contains many tiny holes that allow
water to seep out very slowly to nearby plants. A soaker hose
can be buried under the soil surface and is an easy and efficient
alternative to manual hose watering. More sophisticated
subsurface irrigation systems are also available. Drip
irrigation is highly suited to gardens, shrubs, trees, and flower
beds.
5.6.4
Xeriscape. The word Xeriscape comes from the Greek
word "xeros" meaning "dry". Xeriscape refers to a comprehensive
landscaping program that takes into consideration that water is a
precious resource that must be conserved. It means implementing
landscaping procedures that will produce quality landscapes with
limited water use. The benefits of Xeriscape are numerous:
reduced water bills and maintenance, increased drought
resistance, improved aesthetics, and increased horticultural
diversity, just to name a few.
5.6.4.1
Planning and Design. Examine the site and all the
factors that will determine the best design and choice of plants
for the area:
a)
Drainage requirements.
b)
Sun exposure and areas of shade.
c)
Directional orientation.
d)
Concrete areas.
e)
Weather and precipitation patterns.
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