DIG Drip and Micro Sprinkler Kit, GE200

The DIG GE200 is a complete drip and micro sprinkler kit that covers up to 700 square feet and can be expanded as a planting fills in. It combines two delivery methods in one system: micro sprayers for beds, groundcover and shrubs, and pressure compensating button emitters for individual plants and trees.

What comes in the kit

The head assembly is a 3/4 inch FHT by MHT backflow preventer, a matching pressure regulator and a swivel adapter with a screen, so the kit connects to a standard hose bib. From there you get 200 feet of 1/2 inch drip tubing, 50 feet of 1/4 inch micro tubing, 11 clip spike assemblies carrying spray jets in three 360 degree, four 180 degree and four 90 degree patterns, and 20 one gallon per hour pressure compensating drip emitters. Tees, elbows, a coupling, barb connectors, tubing holder stakes, goof plugs, figure 8 hose ends, a hole punch and an instruction manual complete it.

Why a low application rate matters

Water is applied slowly, which means less evaporates off leaves and soil and more of it soaks in. On a slope or an oddly shaped bed, where a conventional sprinkler wastes a large share to runoff, that difference is the whole point. The slow rate also reduces soil compaction and gives more flexibility in how often you water. Micro sprayers in particular keep moisture in the upper soil layers where new roots develop.

Installation and cost

Everything assembles with barbed push fittings, so there is no glue and no special tooling. It suits both new landscapes and retrofits into existing planting, including difficult terrain. DIG notes that its drip irrigation products may be exempt from residential and commercial watering restrictions, though that depends on where you are, so check with your local water provider before assuming it.