Garden Hoses and Soaker Hoses

Where the water should go decides the hose

A standard hose carries water to a nozzle or sprinkler. A soaker hose is porous or perforated along its length and weeps water slowly into the soil, which suits garden beds and rows; flat versions lie neatly between plants. Because pressure falls along the run, the far end of a soaker waters less, so keep runs short and feed long beds from several points. Soaker hoses work at low pressure, so a regulator at the tap is a sensible addition. Lay them under mulch to cut evaporation.

Diameter, material and drinking-water suitability

Inside diameter sets flow: 1/2 inch is light, 5/8 inch is the usual all-round size, and 3/4 inch moves the most water. Longer hoses lose pressure, so do not buy more length than you need. Vinyl hoses are light but kink and stiffen in cold weather; rubber and reinforced hoses last longer and resist kinks better. Specialty hoses are built for other jobs: marine and RV hose is meant for fresh-water systems, and air hose carries compressed air; do not swap them with garden hose.

Questions about Garden Hoses and Soaker Hoses

How long should a soaker hose be?

Shorter runs water more evenly, because pressure drops along the hose and the far end gets less. Many makers recommend keeping a single run to a modest length; follow the listing, and feed long beds from more than one point instead of one very long hose.

Are garden hoses safe to drink from?

Not unless the hose is labeled for drinking water. Some garden hoses contain materials not meant for contact with drinking water, and the water inside heats up in the sun. Use a hose marked drinking-water safe, such as RV or marine fresh-water hose, if people or pets will drink from it.

What is a double male hose connector for?

A double male fitting has threaded ends on both sides, so it joins two female couplings, for example two hoses that both end in female ends. Check that the threads match, and use a washer in each joint to prevent drips.