Installing Micro Spray Emitters: A Comprehensive Guide

Micro spray emitter in operation

Understanding Micro Spray Emitters

Installing micro spray emitters is an excellent method for achieving even coverage in small areas, particularly in annual flower beds. They can be added directly to existing lateral lines, but be cautious: there's no built-in filter. If you install this directly to an unfiltered zone, it may get clogged. While you might get away without a filter for micro sprays or bubblers, it's highly recommended for drip emitters to prevent clogging.

Pressing sprinkler emitter tubing into manifold

Step 1: Manifold Connection

Use a separate 1/4" connection for each micro spray emitter. This is crucial because they require a large volume of water at a single point. A 1/4" tube is typically unable to supply more than one micro spray emitter effectively.

Micro spray emitter tubing stake

Step 2: Prepare the Tubing

Stretch out your sprinkler emitter tubing and stake it in place. This ensures it will be the proper length to reach the micro spray emitter you're installing.

Pressing tubing onto emitter

Step 3: Connect Tubing to Emitter

After cutting the tubing to the proper length, press it firmly onto the provided connector. Note that each brand may have a different setup and slightly different connector. Work with what's available in your area.

Pressing emitter into ground

Step 4: Install the Emitters

Press micro spray emitters firmly into the ground or bury as needed for your specific application.

Example of a stake style micro spray emitter

Types of Emitters

This image shows an example of a stake style micro spray emitter, which is commonly used in many installations.

Micro spray sprinkler head

Installation Example

Here's another example of installation. Remember to press firmly into the ground or bury as needed for your specific landscape requirements.

Micro spray emitter in operation

Step 5: Testing and Adjusting

After installation, test the micro spray emitters. Adjust as needed to ensure optimal coverage for your plants.

Close-up of micro spray sprinkler head in operation

Final Adjustments

Make final adjustments to your micro spray emitters as needed. Ensure they're providing the right amount of water coverage for your plants' needs.