
FROM THE EXPERTS | Gordon Baker shares his irrigation tips
04/07/2024
Hello, I’m Gordon Baker, the proud owner and operator of Irrigate & Thrive. We're dedicated to helping gardens and landscapes flourish. Our growing business is rooted in a commitment to providing top-notch service and sustainable practices. We specialise in designing, installing, and maintaining irrigation systems tailored to the unique needs of each project

Why is irrigation important?
Ensuring lush, vibrant gardens and landscapes is no small feat, and that's where irrigation systems come to the rescue! For the residential market, these systems are a game-changer, taking the guesswork out of watering and ensuring every plant gets just the right amount of moisture it needs to thrive. Not only do they save homeowners time and effort, but they also promote water conservation by delivering precise amounts directly to the roots, minimising waste. Plus, with smart irrigation technology, managing watering schedules becomes a breeze. So, let’s celebrate the unsung heroes of home gardening and help our clients enjoy beautiful, hassle-free outdoor spaces.
Products we love!
Hunter PRS-40 pop-up sprinklers - These are great because they ensure that each unit has no more than the optimal pressure, resulting in significant water savings by reducing flow & misting. Well worth the extra cost over the regular Pro Spray bodies.
Hunter PRO HC Controllers - We find these to be bullet proof in terms of reliability and they run 'Hydrawise', which in our opinion, is comfortably the best system on the market. As well as automatically adjusting watering length based on internet weather data, it enables us to remotely support all our customers, instantly making simple customer requests, which saves the customers money on unnecessary call out charges & our time.
Goof Plugs - Often small punctures in above ground irrigation pipes can appear to be large leaks when systems are running, but a humble goof plug can fix the problem quickly & easily without having to cut out the hole and re-joining with a straight connector - every gardener & irrigation tech should carry some!
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Common misunderstandings about irrigation
When it comes to irrigation, a few common misunderstandings can leave lawns and gardens less lush than they should be. Some believe that watering frequently and in short bursts is best, but this can actually lead to shallow root systems and water wastage. Another misconception is that all parts of the garden need the same amount of water, when in fact, different plants and soil types have unique needs. Additionally, while it might seem like more water is always better, overwatering can drown plants and promote fungal growth. Understanding these nuances can help create healthier, more resilient landscapes that thrive with just the right amount of care.

Top Tips for installing irrigation
We always try to build in capacity to future proof systems - often customers love the system so much they want to extend it, so having this in mind when initially designing the system makes an extension much easier and cost effective for the client. Pay it forward, the next guy (or girl!) may not be one of our team, but we try to make it as easy as possible to maintain and repair systems, by using consistent parts in accessible positions with a logical layout.