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Aussie gardens guzzle a lot of water – between 25 to 50 per cent* of all household water usage takes place in the backyard, making it the second thirstiest place^ in the home after the shower. Home owners are looking for more efficient ways to keep their outdoor spaces lush and green.
“Using the smartest irrigation systems is crucial because they ensure efficient water usage, reduce wastage and provide optimal hydration for plants,” Matt Priest, managing director of Nomadic Home & Garden based in South Australia, says. “There’s a misconception that irrigation systems are only necessary for large properties, or that they’re overly complicated and expensive. In reality, modern irrigation systems can be tailored to any garden size and are designed to be user-friendly and cost-effective.”
We spoke with irrigation and landscaping expert Matt about the recent innovations in irrigation and the game-changing products he sees coming down the pipeline.
Tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example). Always follow the instructions for using the product or equipment.
Not surprisingly, a lot of innovation in the irrigation space comes from larger agricultural products that are adapted for residential use. One of these is the integration of smart sensors with IoT (Internet of Things) technology into an irrigation system. The irrigation systems are so advanced they can measure everything from temperature and humidity to fertiliser saturation and the amount of water used by the plants.
What the landscaper says: “It’s the biggest innovation I see coming,” Matt says. “These systems can monitor soil moisture, weather forecasts and plant health in real-time, automatically adjusting the watering schedules to ensure optimal conditions. This is a game changer as it significantly reduces water usage, prevents overwatering and promotes sustainable gardening practices. For tradies, this means providing clients with cutting-edge technology that enhances the health and beauty of their landscapes while conserving resources.”
What you need to know: This is definitely a space to watch with advanced all-in-one products for residential use looming on the horizon. Until then look out for our Toro equipment range. “Toro has developed one of the most advanced irrigation systems available, the Toro Tempus, offering a fully wireless experience,” Matt says. “These systems can be purchased either as a complete package or as individual components, depending on your needs. They come in both bluetooth and wi-fi variants, making them quite versatile.”
Tip: Did you know our Landscape Specialist team can help you plan and manage projects, source quotes, arrange bulk ordering and much more so you can get on with the job? This includes assisting with irrigation needs. Find out more about how we can save you time.
There are multiple types of micro-irrigation systems available and it depends on the size of your client’s area as to which style is right for the job. For example, it can be embedded under lawns or above ground in vegetable gardens or even in pots. The slow release from drip irrigation or micro sprinklers delivers water directly to the base of the plant ensuring it gets to the roots rather than just the soil.
What the landscaper says: “These systems deliver water directly to the plant roots, minimising evaporation and run-off,” Matt says. “They’re highly efficient and can be customised to suit various plant types and garden layouts, saving time and money on water bills.”
What you need to know: These systems can also be used with recycled or treated wastewater, which might be able to bring down water bill costs for your clients even further.
Irrigation systems that use renewable energy, such as solar or wind, are revolutionising the way farmers irrigate their crops by lowering emissions and saving on energy costs. Solar systems work in a similar way in residential backyards, too – sunlight is converted into electricity to run pumps that irrigate the garden.
What the landscaper says: “Solar-powered irrigation systems are becoming more popular. They’re sustainable and reduce reliance on traditional power sources, making them cost-effective in the long run and environmentally friendly,” Matt says.
What you need to know: Clients need to understand that, like solar panels on your roof, renewable systems can require a higher upfront investment, but will pay for themselves over time. If your clients have water features – like ponds or fountains – a solar pump is a lower cost way to test the waters, so to speak.
This system utilises collected rainwater to irrigate gardens, which is both sustainable and cost-effective, especially during water restrictions. Water flows downward and outward until it has nowhere else to go. That means as long as the drip line stays below the water level in the barrels, you can irrigate with gravity. Setting it up so it relies on gravity for the drip distribution makes it energy efficient as well.
What the landscaper says: “Gravity-fed irrigation is low-tech and relies on natural pressure, eliminating the need for electricity or pumps,” Matt says. “It’s an excellent choice for environmentally-conscious clients or those looking to reduce their water bills.”
What you need to know: The effectiveness of this system depends on the garden's elevation and layout. Ensuring adequate water pressure might require careful planning, especially for larger gardens or those with significant elevation changes.
Capillary mats are an innovative and low-maintenance solution for indoor and greenhouse plants. The porous mats use capillary action to draw water from a reservoir, providing consistent moisture to the base of potted plants.
What the landscaper says: “This method ensures that plants receive an even supply of water without the risk of overwatering, making it ideal for busy gardeners or commercial operations,” Matt says.
What you need to know: Capillary mats work best with smaller potted plants and may not be suitable for larger, deep-rooted plants. Regular cleaning of the mats is necessary to prevent algae buildup, and they need to be properly set up to ensure effective water distribution.
For tips and solutions on getting your client’s lawn in top shape before the heat hits check out our interview with famed landscaper Dennis Scott.
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
