Because the soil entry point is small weed growth is minimized. In most cases, using dripline represents a cost saving at the initial installation stage. Sprinklers are fitted with an insect proof spinner, which shuts off when not in operation. The spinners usually have break-off deflectors, which direct the output in a small area during the initial period and are snapped off at some stage to allow the watering to occur over the full area. Because the sprinklers cover the whole area, even root formation is encouraged, particularly important to provide strong anchorage where mechanical harvesting is used.
Sprinklers are readily visible, and any deviation from normal operation is more quickly noticed.
With laterals positioned underground, grove maintenance is simplified. WaterMart recommends the use of the DAN 2001 pressure compensated olive sprinkler rather than the use of drip irrigation. This is particularly important where the soil type and structure is such that water move-ment is likely to be inhibited and an imbalance in root formation can occur.