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Three tips when buying a garden hose
A drip hose has small holes so that water can seep out along the hose. This is useful for self-watering, for example for pallet collars.
A spiral hose rolls up by itself when you turn it off, meaning that you don’t have to go through the hassle of tidying it away yourself.
An expandable garden hose is great if you don’t have a lot of storage space. It is only a third of its full length when you’re not using it, and expands when you turn it on.
If you want to water vegetables or be able to drink the water from it, we recommend a hose that is free from lead, BPA and phthalates.
Diameter: The size of the hose affects how quickly the garden can be watered. The thicker the hose, the more water can flow out of it per second. Efficient watering is all well and good, but a hose that’s too thick can be heavy and difficult to store. A diameter of 1.5 centimetres is usually sufficient for light garden work. However, if you need the hose to wash your car, you’ll need a larger hose with more pressure.
Length: The hose must be able to reach everywhere without you having to stretch it. If you have a small patio, a 10 metre hose is sufficient. A smaller garden will usually require 20 metres, and if you have a larger area to water you may need up to 50 metres. Also, a hose that’s too long can be cumbersome, so don’t choose one that’s longer than you need. One alternative is to buy two shorter hoses that you can connect if necessary.
Choose a hose with proper reinforcement to avoid getting holes in it. Rubber is usually the most sustainable option. It saves you the frustration of having to deal with a hose that kinks and tangles. You should be able to bend and step on it without it breaking or creasing. A UV-resistant hose is a plus, as it won’t fade or crack in the sun.
Learning how to water your garden with minimun water waste is important in times of draught. Read here to learn more about it.