How to Choose the Right Irrigation System for Your Yard
A Practical Guide for West Seattle Homeowners
A beautiful yard is only as healthy as the irrigation system that supports it. Whether you're growing native plants, maintaining a lush lawn, or caring for raised beds, the right irrigation system can reduce water waste, save time, and keep your landscape thriving year-round. At Monetti Landscape, we help West Seattle homeowners choose and install irrigation systems tailored to their specific soil, plantings, and layout.
If you're wondering what type of system is best for your yard, this guide breaks it down for you.
Why Smart Irrigation Matters in West Seattle
Seattle may be known for rain, but summer months often bring dry spells. Many West Seattle homes are built on sloped lots or feature tiered gardens that require strategic watering. Choosing the right irrigation system ensures:
Even water distribution
Healthier plants and soil
Reduced water bills
Less manual labor and maintenance
Protection from overwatering or runoff
Whether your goal is sustainability or simplicity, a professional irrigation setup can make all the difference.
5 Common Types of Irrigation Systems and When to Use Them
1. Drip Irrigation
Best for: Garden beds, shrubs, raised planters, native plant zones
Drip systems deliver water slowly and directly to plant roots, minimizing evaporation and runoff. They're efficient, customizable, and ideal for West Seattle’s sloped gardens or drought-tolerant landscapes.
2. Spray Irrigation (Pop-Up Sprinklers)
Best for: Lawns, flat open areas
These traditional sprinklers pop up when activated and cover broad areas quickly. They work well on flat terrain with uniform plantings but can waste water on windy days or steep slopes.
3. Rotary Sprinklers (Rotors)
Best for: Large lawn areas, commercial properties
Rotary heads spray water in a rotating motion, covering more ground with less pressure. They’re efficient and often used for larger yards or lawn-centric designs.
4. Soaker Hoses
Best for: Small beds, borders, vegetable gardens
A soaker hose slowly releases water along its length. It’s affordable and simple to install, though less precise than drip systems and better for temporary setups.
5. Smart Irrigation Controllers
Best for: Homeowners who want automation and efficiency
Smart controllers adjust watering schedules based on weather, soil moisture, and plant needs. They can be paired with almost any system and monitored via smartphone.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Irrigation System
When we design an irrigation plan for your yard, we take into account:
Yard size and layout (flat vs. sloped, open vs. segmented)
Plant types (lawn, native plants, vegetables, ornamentals)
Sun exposure and drainage
Water pressure availability
Budget and long-term maintenance goals
Sustainability and conservation priorities
No two properties are the same — that’s why we customize every irrigation system we install.
View our full list of landscaping services →
West Seattle-Specific Irrigation Tips
Use drip systems on sloped lots to prevent runoff
Install rain sensors or smart controllers to avoid overwatering during Seattle’s rainy seasons
Pair irrigation with mulching to retain moisture and reduce weed growth
Zone your system so shaded, sunny, and planted areas receive the right amount of water
At Monetti Landscape, we help clients across West Seattle neighborhoods — from Fauntleroy to Admiral — select water-wise systems that align with both local codes and long-term efficiency.
Our Irrigation Design & Installation Services
We offer full-service irrigation design, including:
Drip and spray system installation
Rain sensor and smart controller setup
Seasonal adjustment and system tuning
Maintenance and winterization services
Integrated irrigation in full landscape designs
Whether we’re updating an existing system or installing a new one, we ensure every detail is tailored to your yard.
Get a custom irrigation quote →
Book a Consultation for Your Yard
Not sure where to start? Schedule an on-site visit and we’ll evaluate your yard, recommend the best irrigation solution, and handle everything from planning to installation. Let Monetti Landscape simplify your watering — so you can spend more time enjoying your space.
Contact us today for a free landscape design and construction consultation.
