Introduction: Automatic Garden Sprinkler

July heat in NJ can burn up plants quickly. Forgetting to water the garden just one day in this heat can affect some plants to the point of no return. Having an automatic sprinkler to take care of the garden can avoid such mishaps and the regular watering schedule will help plants grow to their fullest.

Step 1: Tools

If you have one of these PVC cutters they are great. If not a hack saw will do. Other than a shovel to bury the pipe there aren't really any other tools needed

Step 2: Timer

All of these items can be purchased at Lowe's or Home Depot or your local hardware store.
You will need a timer. These cost about $30.

Step 3: Shut Off Valve

You need this for 2 reasons. First as a shutoff, second as a way to control water pressure. By turning it not quite all the way on or off you can control the pressure on the sprinkler heads.

Step 4: PVC Pipe and Fittings

PVC pipe, 1/2 in. is fine. You can buy 8 or 10 ft. lengths for about $2.25 ea.
PVC fittings. Depending on your setup, you will need Tee's, 90's, a few of each. These are cheap, only $.25 - $.45 ea.
PVC adapters. Depending on the type of timer and your water supply, whatever you need to connect the timer to the supply.
Glue! Don't forget the PVC glue.

Step 5: Sprinkle Heads

Sprinkler heads. I bought this type because they were cheaper than regular sprinkler heads and work just fine. They also adjust from 12-24 in. high. You will need enough to cover the entire garden. Check the coverage on the heads.

Step 6: Assembly

I buried the pipe between the timer and the garden because there is a walkway between them.
Clean and glue everything together after cutting and dry fitting. Check for leaks and program timer.
This whole system was under $50. It waters my garden 4 times a day, 10 min. ea. time.