One of the keys to an effective drip irrigation system design is a working knowledge of the different types of emission products available which enable the designer to meet the needs of different plant material within the same area. Drip emitters are the devices that regulate the water flow from the tubing at a designated rate. There are hundreds of types of drippers used in drip irrigation, but only a few that work reliably, year-after-year.

Choosing the appropriate emission device for your system is often the most confusing choice in drip irrigation because the emitters come in many different flow rates and styles. Some are designed specifically for dense plantings, while others are better suited for sparse plantings. The plant type, soil and type of installation will determine which emitters to use in your drip irrigation system to meet different water intake requirements in the same irrigation zone, using the same run time. A trained landscape professional can guide you in selecting the correct emitters for your drip irrigation system.