Seep & Soaker Hoses

System

A seep or soaker hose is a porous hosepipe that gently weeps water along its length. It provides an uncomplicated, low-splash way to water rows and borders, especially when hidden beneath mulch. Water reaches the soil rather than the foliage, helping gardens use water more carefully in warm, dry weather.

How it works

Lay the hose on level soil, snaking it beside plants or along a vegetable row, and secure it so it stays in place. Connect it to the water supply at low pressure: excessive pressure can cause uneven watering or damage. Water seeps through the porous wall and spreads gradually through nearby soil. Covering it with compost, bark or another mulch reduces evaporation. Run it for long enough to wet the root zone, then move or adjust it if dry patches remain.

Best for

Soaker hoses work well in long borders, hedging, fruit rows, beans, courgettes and greenhouse beds where plant spacing is fairly regular. They are useful for gardeners who want gentler irrigation without installing individual drippers. They are less precise for widely spaced containers and can water poorly on steep slopes or very uneven ground.

Tips

Use low pressure and check moisture after the first few runs, as soil type changes how far water travels. Keep the hose clear of sharp edges and flush it occasionally. Lay it before applying mulch, not on top of it. Water in the morning or evening, and avoid leaving it running unattended.