Most of these options are simple to use and work adequately. While drip or trickle irrigation requires special equipment, it is the best method to use for conserving water. The watering can and hose are fine for small gardens. When watering with the hose, the low pressure stream of water should be directed to the base of the plant and not the foliage.
Overhead sprinklers offer a wide range of watering patterns and area coverages.
They are convenient but not very water-efficient. During hot, windy days, especially with small droplet sizes, a considerable amount of water is lost to evaporation. Also, many sprinklers deposit less water as one moves outward away from the source. Oscillating sprinklers apply water more evenly than overhead sprinklers and can be easily adjusted to cover square or rectangular areas. The soaker hose is an inexpensive and easy watering device.