How to Upgrade Your Farm with Smart Irrigation Systems

Watering your crops doesn’t need to be a guessing game. With smart irrigation systems, you can give your farm exactly what it needs - no more, no less. That means healthier crops, fewer hours spent lugging hoses and lower water bills. What’s not to love?

Whether you’re growing veg, fruit or fodder, upgrading to a modern system like an automatic water sprinkler system, controlled by smart watering timers, can transform the way your farm runs day to day.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what smart irrigation is, the different types of systems available and how you can start upgrading your land today using parts supplied by Irrigation Online, based right here in Lincolnshire.

What Is a Smart Irrigation System?

A smart irrigation system uses technology to automate and optimise your farm’s watering schedule. Instead of relying on guesswork or fixed timers, these systems respond to weather conditions, soil moisture and crop needs.

The basics include:

• Sprinklers or drip lines to deliver the water
• Automatic watering timers to control when it happens
• Optional smart controllers or sensors to adjust based on the environment

And best of all? You can build your system yourself using reliable, affordable parts from trusted brands like Hunter Industries and connect them using long-lasting plastic pipe fittings.

Why Upgrade? Key Benefits for Farmers

Smart irrigation systems aren’t just for show. They come with a stack of practical benefits, especially for working farms:

Save Time and Labour

You’ve got enough to do without dragging hoses across the yard. Automating your watering schedule frees up hours each week, which is especially helpful during busy planting or harvesting seasons.

2. Reduce Water Waste

Overwatering is a common issue that leads to waterlogged roots and higher bills. Smart systems apply just the right amount of water where it’s needed, reducing runoff and waste.

3. Improve Crop Health and Yields

Consistent watering improves germination and promotes steady growth. No more under- or over-watering patches - just healthy, even crops.

4. Adapt to Weather Conditions

Modern systems can integrate with rain sensors or soil moisture probes, meaning they’ll pause watering when it’s already wet and increase it during dry spells.

5. Scalable and Flexible

Whether you’ve got one polytunnel or 200 acres, smart irrigation systems can be tailored to suit. You can start small and expand over time using modular parts.

Different Types of Irrigation Systems for Farms

There’s no one-size-fits-all system when it comes to farming. The right solution depends on your crop type, soil, water pressure and layout. Here are some of the most common types used in UK agriculture:

1. Drip Irrigation

Drip lines deliver water slowly and directly to the base of each plant. This minimises evaporation and is perfect for rows of vegetables, fruit trees or polytunnels.

• Best for: Greenhouses, raised beds, row crops
• Pros: Precise, low water usage, reduces disease risk
• Tip: Use pressure-compensating drippers for uneven ground.

2. Sprinkler Systems

Water is sprayed over a wide area, either from stationary sprinklers or rotating arms. These are ideal for open field crops and grassland.

• Best for: Lawns, pastures, cereals
• Pros: Covers large areas, adjustable spray heads
• Tip: Match sprinkler heads to your water pressure for even coverage.

3. Soaker Hoses

These flexible hoses slowly seep water along their length. Great for hedges, narrow beds or tight spaces.

• Best for: Borders, fruit cages, allotments
• Pros: Easy to install, good for small areas
• Tip: Connect to a timer for worry-free watering.

4. Micro-Irrigation Systems

Perfect for detailed work in polytunnels and greenhouses, these systems use small nozzles or emitters for precise water delivery.

• Best for: Hanging baskets, young plants, specialist crops
• Pros: High control, minimal waste
• Tip: Use with smart controllers for best results.

Building Your Smart System: What You’ll Need

You don’t need to be a tech expert to install a smart irrigation system, just a good plan and the right kit. At Irrigation Online, we supply everything you need to build your own system. Here’s a breakdown of what to get started with:

1. Water Sprinkler System Components

Choose from a wide range of sprinklers, including pop-up, impact or rotating types. Hunter Industries makes durable sprinkler heads that work well with farm-level setups.

2. Automatic Watering Timers

These are the brains of your system. Set them once and they’ll take care of the rest. Many timers now offer Bluetooth or Wi-Fi control via smartphone apps.

3. Plastic Pipe Fittings and Tubing

Use LDPE pipe and plastic fittings to connect your system. They’re UV-resistant, affordable and easy to swap out if needed.

4. Filters and Pressure Regulators

Don’t forget to fit filters to keep sediment out of your drippers or sprinklers. Pressure regulators help prevent damage to delicate parts if your supply pressure is high.

5. Optional: Soil Moisture Sensors or Rain Sensors

For added efficiency, connect moisture sensors that feed data into your smart timer. Some Hunter Industries controllers are compatible with sensor add-ons.

How to Get Started: Step-by-Step

Setting up a basic smart irrigation system is easier than you might think. Here’s a simple plan to follow:

Step 1: Map Your Layout

Sketch out your growing areas. Mark crop types, water source location and distances. Decide what needs drip vs sprinkler irrigation.

Step 2: Choose Your System

Select the right components based on your layout. Not sure? Our team at Irrigation Online are happy to advise.

Step 3: Install Pipes and Fittings

Lay down your LDPE pipes, secure with pegs and connect with plastic pipe fittings. Position sprinklers or drippers where needed.

Step 4: Add Timers and Sensors

Mount your automatic watering timer near the tap or water source. Connect any sensors or Bluetooth controllers.

Step 5: Test and Adjust

Run a test to check for leaks, pressure issues, or missed spots. Adjust spray heads or timer settings as needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best system won’t work properly if installed incorrectly. Watch out for these common errors:

• Over-pressuring drip lines – use a regulator to protect them
• Clogged emitters – flush your system regularly and use a filter
• Poor timer settings – tailor watering times to crop and season
• Mismatched fittings – always check pipe and fitting sizes before buying

Why Choose Irrigation Online?

At Irrigation Online, we’ve been supplying high-quality irrigation parts for over 20 years. Based in Lincolnshire, we work with farmers, growers and landscapers across the UK. We stock leading brands like Hunter Industries and offer:

• Fast delivery
• Easy online ordering
• Expert advice when you need it

While we don’t offer installation, our site is packed with resources and product guides to help you set up confidently.

Ready to Upgrade Your Irrigation?

Smart irrigation systems make life easier, crops healthier, and your farm more efficient. Whether you're after a full water sprinkler system, a timer upgrade, or just some plastic pipe fittings, we've got you covered. Shop irrigation parts now online or get in touch with our team for help choosing the right setup for your farm.