Choosing and Using Soaker Hoses for Deep, Efficient Watering

Two Main Types

1. Round black porous hose: Water oozes along its entire length. Flexible, easy to move, can be arranged in any pattern. Roll up for storage. Must be moved before mowing.
2. Flat green hose with yellow/white stripe: Stripe side has holes. Stripe up = sprinkler; stripe down = soaker. Less flexible around curves, harder to customize patterns.

Where to Buy

Both types at Walmart, hardware stores, garden centers—anywhere garden hoses are sold.

Why Soakers Beat Sprinklers

• Water goes directly to soil, no evaporation loss.
• Ideal for deep watering (6+ inches) to encourage deep roots.
• Run 1–2 hours, let soak, repeat until target depth reached.
• Use a battery timer for automation.

Pro Tip

Leave one soaker permanently at the foundation for structural watering. Move the others around the lawn as needed.