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Watering the garden without a kinkFor a novice gardener, one of the first investments is a watering hose. This is a decision that could either cause or prevent many headaches in the future. It may take several sweat and tear filled years to discover what to look for in a garden hose; but why go through all of that suffering for nothing. When dealing with garden hoses, it is very true that you get what you pay for. So the ideal combination would be to select the hose of highest quality within the budget that will still do the job. The following are some tips that should guide any level of gardener to the perfect hose. Before going to the store, it is a good idea to measure the length between the water spigot and the furthest point needing irrigation. But, don't measure just the straight line path--remember that the hose has to curve around the boxwoods, miss the impatiens and then go around the decorative rock without killing every flower in its path. Most hoses are sold in lengths of 25-, 50-, 75-, and 100-feet. If most tasks in a yard could be done with a high quality 50-foot hose, but occasionally a 75-foot hose is needed; consider purchasing a less expensive 25-foot section that could be attached to the 50-foot hose. Hoses are also categorized by diameter. The five standard sizes are 3/8-, 5/8-, 1/2-, 3/4-, and one-inch. As the diameter increases, so does the amount of water that is delivered. If a majority of the watering is for container plants or smaller jobs, the 1/2-inch diameter is sufficient. The 5/8-inch is most commonly used to attach to a lawn sprinkler. The material of the hose is what will determine the life span. Most hoses are made with PVC (polyvinyl chloride). The advantages of PVC are that it is lightweight, flexible, and usually less expensive. When purchasing a PVC type hose, look for one that is reinforced with rubber. If the added weight is not a problem, a hose made entirely out of rubber will last the longest and will be the most resistant to kinking. Kinking is not only a pesky trait, but it also causes long term damage. Once the hose kinks, it will continue to kink in the same spot and eventually crack. A good hose should not kink easily. When shopping for a garden hose, pick up one of the ends and bend it into a U-shape. This should demonstrate the hose's resistance. Check to see what the "ply" rating is. Most hoses will range from one to six ply, with six being the highest quality. A coupling is where the hose attaches to the spigot. Some are brass, galvanized steel, or even plastic. A hexagon shaped coupling will allow for easier on/off movement, or tightening with pliers. Plastic couplings could be easier for a person who has limited hand strength. Some hoses may have a metal coil below the coupling. The purpose of this is to prevent kinking at the spigot when there is maximum tension put on the hose. No matter which garden hose you choose proper care and maintenance will help extend the life expectancy. Store hoses in the shade, as sunlight will break down the PVC material. If leaving the hose attached to the spigot, be sure that all pressure is released after each use. Drain hoses at the end of the season, and store where it will not be subject to freezing temperatures. 6/16/08 Date: 6/9/08
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