DIY Makeshift Irrigation Systems for Your Keder Greenhouse

Introduction

Keeping your crops well-watered is one of the most important tasks in greenhouse gardening - especially during hot weather. If you're using a Keder greenhouse, you're already ahead of the game with its excellent insulation, UV protection, and superior light diffusion. The unique structure of Keder panels scatters sunlight more evenly throughout the space, reducing harsh shadows and helping plants photosynthesize more efficiently. This gentle, diffused light not only reduces heat stress on plants but also supports consistent growth across your beds.

However, even the best greenhouse won’t protect your plants from dehydration. If you're not ready to invest in a full irrigation system, don’t worry. Here are several smart, low-cost DIY makeshift irrigation systems to help your greenhouse plants thrive.

Gravity-Fed Watering System

This method uses simple physics. Place a water container (like a large jug or bucket) on a raised platform or shelf above your plants. Connect tubing or an old garden hose to the container, poking small holes near where your plants are.

Pros: Cheap and doesn’t need electricity

Cons: Low water pressure; best for small areas

Tips:

• Use a fine mesh over the opening to prevent debris from clogging the system

• Adjust hole sizes to control water flow

Soaker Hose Snaking

Poke holes in an old garden hose and weave it through your garden beds. When connected to a water source and turned on low, it slowly leaks water into the soil.

Pros: Water-efficient and easy to make

Cons: Can clog over time; needs regular maintenance

Tips:

• Add a hose timer to automate watering

• Cover with mulch to reduce evaporation

Plastic Bottle Drip Irrigation

Take 2-litre plastic bottles, poke small holes in the cap and lower sides, and bury them near plant roots. Fill with water, and they’ll release moisture slowly.

Pros: Super cheap and great for targeted watering

Cons: Not practical for large setups

Tips:

• Add small pebbles to slow the water flow even more

• Rinse with vinegar if algae starts to form inside

Wicking Systems with Capillary Mats

Place capillary mats on benches or the ground, with water trays underneath. Use strips of felt or cotton to wick water from the trays to your pots.

Pros: Great for potted plants and avoids overwatering

Cons: Not ideal for crops that need lots of water

Tips:

• Keep mats clean to avoid mould buildup

• Add hydrogel crystals to potting mix for extra moisture retention

Recycled Sprinkler Heads with Timed Valves

Mount old sprinkler heads on PVC pipes and connect them to a manual or timed valve. This setup mimics commercial misting systems but costs far less.

Pros: Covers a wide area quickly

Cons: Water coverage may be uneven if not well set up

Tips:

• Install above plants for better reach

• Try different nozzles to adjust mist or spray pattern

The Bucket and Towel Method (as pictured)

This ultra-simple method is perfect for slowly watering plants over time using materials you likely already have.

Fill a bucket with water and place it next to your plant bed or container. Drape one end of an old cotton towel or thick cloth in the bucket and bury the other end into the soil near your plants. The fabric slowly wicks water from the bucket to the soil as it dries out

Pros: No tools or hoses needed, almost no cost

Cons: Best for small areas or individual plants

Tips:

• Use thicker cloths for better water transfer

• Place the bucket slightly above soil level to improve flow (use something like a crate)

• Keep the bucket covered to reduce evaporation and mosquito breeding

Bucket and Towel Irrigation

Conclusion

Your Keder greenhouse is built for year-round productivity, but without a proper watering system, your crops can still struggle. These makeshift irrigation methods are affordable, easy to set up, and flexible enough for most greenhouse layouts. With a little creativity and upkeep, you can keep your plants hydrated until you're ready to upgrade to a full irrigation system.

Have a favourite DIY watering trick? Share it with us in the comments!