Automatic watering systems - which one?

[MrsDinky]

Has anyone used these successfully? I have 3 small raised beds about 15m away from the outside tap, about 12 patio pots scattered around the patio close to the tap, and two newly planted borders of perennials that are all needing water every day at the moment.

I would like an automated system in place before going on holiday at the end of July. I already have a Hozelock timer which works (all my hose fittings are Hozelock). I would probably use it all summer, not just when away. But I don't want too many hoses trailing across the garden causing tripping hazards. I used a porous tube one years ago and it was OK, but is all perished now and the tubes are all the wrong lengths, so I wondered if there was anything better available nowadays?

Can anyone suggest a good system? Also, are they allowed under a hosepipe ban? We have no indication of one in our area, but the way things are going with the weather I wouldn't be surprised.

Thank you

[ICantFindAFreeNickName]

We have the Hozelock system, and would reccomend it. I think it can be quite expensive but we keep an eye out for reductions at the end of the season. We have had ours for a number of years and have not had any problems with it.

I'm not sure if they are allowed when there is a hosepipe ban.

[MrsDinky]

Thank you, I have had a good look at the Hoselock website (which does confirm that you can't use them in a hosepipe ban) and think I am going to concentrate on my pots with one of those aquapod things and the border/raised beds with porous tubes. The other border is more shady so I'm going to drench it and mulch it and hopefully it will be OK. Just wish it would rain!