Getting to the Root of the Problem ~ Using PVC Pipe for Vertical Irrigation

Getting water to the roots of  large plants such as tomatoes isn't always easy. Surface watering does little more than alleviate the immediate need for water. As we learned yesterday, this can actually cause your plants to develop roots close the surface of the soil, compromising the health of your plants.


Using PVC pipe to direct water right to the roots is an inexpensive way to provide your tomatoes with the water they need to thrive.


                                        How to Make Vertical PVC Pipe Irrigation 

• Cut a 12 to 16 inch section of  2-inch PVC pipe.
• Cover one end with screen and secure it in place with PVC glue (or duct tape).
• Dig a hole beside your tomato plant to the depth of the pipe.
• Insert the pipe into the hole so that the top (the screen-covered end) rests slightly above the soil level.
• Fill in around the pipe with soil and firm it down to secure the pipe.
• Water your tomato plants by filling the pipe with water.

The screen over the end of the pipe is not necessary, but does prevent small mammals, reptiles and amphibians from getting trapped in the pipe. 


As an alternative, leave the end open and water your tomato plants by inverting a bottle of water in the end of the pipe. Refill the bottle as needed to keep the roots of your tomatoes moist. Keeping the inverted bottle in the opening prevents debris or animals from entering it.


                                               Until Next Time . . . HAPPY GARDENING!

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