Here’s How to Choose the Right Hose and Sprinkler for Your Lawn & Garden

Types of Garden Hoses

Hoses come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are designed for different uses. The one you choose depends on the size of your garden and your watering needs.

Hose Buying Considerations

When choosing a hose, consider the following factors, which will impact your hose’s performance, cost and storage requirements.

Hose Length

Garden hoses range between 15 to 100 feet. The longer the hose, the heavier and more difficult it will be to manoeuvre. Determine your needs by measuring the distance from the water hookup to how far you want the hose to go, adding a couple feet for good measure.

Hose Size

Hose size refers to a hose’s diameter, which ranges from 3/8-inch to 3/4-inch. The larger the size, the heavier the water flow. Standard garden hoses are 5/8-inch in diameter, but consider a larger size if you have landscaping or contract work that requires a heavy flow of water.

Couplings

Hose couplings connect your hose to the water supply, sprinkler, nozzles or other hoses. Plastic couplings with ergonomic grips are the easiest to use, especially for people with limited hand strength. Metal couplings are harder to loosen and tighten, but more durable and leak-proof.

Types of Sprinklers

For worry-free watering, a sprinkler can’t be beat. Unlike a hose nozzle (which is best for targeted watering of a garden bed or plants), a sprinkler is ideal for diffuse watering over a larger space. Here are the most popular sprinkler head options.

Types of Hose Nozzles

Your nozzle attaches to the end of your hose and directs the water spray. The type of nozzle you choose should depend on your specific watering needs. Here are the most common hose nozzles.