Oh, the efficiency and convenience of an in-ground sprinkler system. For our hot Southern Oregon summers, it's practically a necessity for folks with a garden or lawn of any substantial size (unless you happen to be one of those superior individuals with military-grade discipline who's out watering at 5 am on summer mornings). Lawn sprinkler systems can be installed by commercial lawn care or landscaping companies or you can install them yourself, and in most cases, save yourself a boatload of money.

Prices of sprinkler systems vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of sprinkler system, the size of the area to be sprinkled and whether the sprinkler system is manually turned on or automatic. If you have a "complicated" lawn, with lots of different zones and varied watering needs, it's extremely likely that you'll be able to save money if you're wiling to put in the time of tailoring your system to your exact specifications.

If you are using a company to install your system, clarify ahead of time whether the quote includes the work necessary to repair your lawn once the plumbing for the sprinklers is in place. If you're doing it yourself, keep in mind that once the system is in, the work's not over.

Ready to be free of this? Photo: sxc.hu/iprole

Do It Yourself Lawn Sprinkler System

If you're relatively handy, have a decent selection of tools and are in shape enough to do a little digging, you can install your own sprinkler system.

First, you need a plan of the area you want to cover with your sprinkler. The goal is to cover the maximum area effectively with the least amount of digging and piping material. The source of water (and electricity, if you are installing an automated system) will determine your starting point. The design needs to take into consideration the type of area you are going to cover…lawn areas, gardens, flat areas, treed areas and what kind of sprinkler heads you are going to use as these conditions all contribute to the distance and spread of the water. Normal home water pressure will drive most systems. It's worth noting that when preparing a landscaping plan, you should think about sprinkler placement as well.
Materials

Lawn care, like a lot of house chores, is sometimes fun, sometimes a pain, and sometimes outsourced. A lovely lawn will increase your home's curb appeal and value, and make the time you spend outdoors a bit more enjoyable. If you don't mind the maintenance, this article's for you, but if it's the bane of your existence, hiring a lawn care service or recruiting a neighborhood kid can make this frustration disappear.

What makes a lawn perfect?

“Perfection” for your lawn is: a rich, green color; weed free; thick and healthy grass; and no patches of dirt showing. Achieve these four things and you have a perfect lawn.

Grass types

There are lots of varieties of grass, Zoysia, Bermuda, Pampas and St. Augustine to name a few. The best choice of grass for you to plant depends on where you live and the look you are trying to achieve. Read up on the grasses sold in your area. Ask questions of the local nursery salespeople. The internet is loaded with up to date information and there are chat lines and blogs that can really help give you the information you need to pick the right grass.

Maintenance