Short Answer
Drip irrigation and sprinklers serve different purposes. Sprinklers are best for lawns and large open areas where broad, uniform coverage is needed. Drip is best for borders, beds, hedges and containers where precise, low-flow watering to the root zone saves water. Most gardens benefit from a combination of both, each on its own zone.
When to use sprinklers
Sprinklers are best for lawns and large open areas where broad, uniform coverage is needed. They cover large areas quickly but lose water to evaporation and wind drift.
When to use drip
Drip is best for borders, beds, hedges, containers and any planting where precise, low-flow watering to the root zone saves water and protects foliage. Drip uses up to 70% less water than sprinklers because it delivers water directly to the roots with no evaporation or overspray, and it keeps the surrounding soil dry, suppressing weeds.
Combining both
Most Surrey gardens benefit from a combination: pop-up sprinklers for lawns and drip for borders and beds, each on its own zone with its own scheduling.
Key Takeaway
Use sprinklers for lawns and drip for borders, beds and containers — most gardens benefit from a combination of both, with drip using up to 70% less water than sprinklers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, drip or sprinklers?
Drip is best for borders, beds, hedges and containers; sprinklers are best for lawns. Most gardens benefit from a combination of both, each on its own zone.
Does drip save water compared to sprinklers?
Yes. Drip can use up to 70% less water because it delivers water directly to the root zone with no evaporation, overspray or runoff.
Can I convert sprinklers to drip?
Yes. A sprinkler zone can be converted to drip by capping the sprinklers and running drip line from the same valve, though a pressure regulator may need to be added.
Is drip more expensive to install than sprinklers?
Drip materials are typically less expensive per area covered, but both require the same zoning, valves and controller. The overall system cost is similar.