Ultimate Guide to Garden Sprinklers

Whether you have a small patch of grass or a large garden, a good garden sprinkler can make all the difference. The right sprinkler ensures your lawn stays lush, flower beds thrive, and borders remain healthy, all without spending hours with a hose in the summer heat. In this guide, we’ll break down the types of sprinklers, how they work, and what to look for when choosing one for your garden.

How Garden Sprinklers Work

Garden sprinklers are a simple, effective way to water your garden evenly. Connected to your water supply, they distribute water over a specific area in a controlled way, replicating rainfall.

Different sprinklers work in different ways:

• Fixed pattern: Sprays in one direction.

• Rotating or oscillating: Covers a wider area slowly and evenly.

• Travelling sprinklers: Move across the garden on a set path.

Using a sprinkler saves time and effort, and many can be paired with timers or controllers for automatic watering, even when you’re away.

Types of Garden Sprinklers

Oscillating Sprinklers

These classic sprinklers feature a long tube with multiple nozzles that spray water back and forth, creating a rectangular pattern.

Pros:

• Good, consistent coverage

• Adjustable for different lawn sizes

• Ideal for narrow or rectangular lawns

Cons:

• High sprays can be affected by wind

• Cheaper models may clog over time

Impact Sprinklers

Impact sprinklers rotate in a circular pattern with the distinctive “clicking” sound. They are highly adjustable, allowing partial or full-circle coverage.

Pros:

• Excellent for large areas

• Lower spray trajectory reduces water loss to wind

• Durable and long-lasting

Cons:

• Circular pattern may miss corners

• Requires higher water pressure

Rotary Sprinklers

Rotary sprinklers rotate streams of water slowly from multiple arms. Perfect for deep watering of small to medium lawns.

Pros:

• Even coverage

• Gentle spray for tender plants

• Efficient water use

Cons:

• Less suitable for rectangular or narrow areas

• Wind can affect distribution

Travelling Sprinklers

These sprinklers move along a set path, watering as they go. They’re perfect for large or irregularly shaped lawns.

Pros:

• Covers large areas without manual effort

• Can be set to follow a specific path

Cons:

• Effectiveness depends on hose layout

• More expensive than stationary options

Sprinkler Mounts: Tripod, Skid & Spike

Skid-Mounted Sprinklers

Skid bases glide over the lawn for easy movement, perfect for professional or large gardens. Steel models are particularly durable.

Tripod Sprinklers

Elevated sprinklers on a tripod are ideal for watering over tall plants and shrubs. Adjustable height and foldable legs make storage simple.

Spike Sprinklers

Spike sprinklers are straightforward and portable. They stake directly into the soil and can be easily moved to water different areas.

Choosing the Right Garden Sprinkler

When selecting a sprinkler, consider:

• What you’re watering: Lawns, flower beds, or borders? Taller plants may need elevated sprinklers.

• Garden shape: Round, square, rectangular, or irregular layouts affect which type works best.

• Water pressure: Low-pressure systems require sprinklers designed to work efficiently at lower flows.

• Climate: Hot, dry, or windy areas benefit from low-trajectory sprinklers to reduce evaporation.

• Water efficiency: Sprinklers can use a lot of water if left unchecked—automatic systems can save both time and water.

Recommended Sprinkler Brands

Investing in a quality sprinkler ensures reliability and long-lasting performance. Brands we recommend include professional-grade options compatible with QuickClick or Geka couplings, such as the Garden Skid with Impact Sprinkler.

Sprinklers for Small Gardens

Even small gardens can benefit from sprinklers. Look for compact models or spike sprinklers to target tight spaces without overwatering nearby plants.

Sprinklers for Large Gardens

For bigger lawns, travelling sprinklers, impact sprinklers, or oscillating sprinklers with wider coverage are ideal. Always check water pressure—long hoses and multiple sprinklers can reduce flow, so larger diameter hoses often help.

Quick Tips for Using Garden Sprinklers

1. Water early in the morning for best absorption and reduced evaporation.

2. Adjust the sprinkler to avoid watering paths, patios, or flowerpots.

3. Check for even coverage—adjust settings if parts of your garden are being missed.

4. Consider combining sprinklers with automatic timers for convenience.