- To use a soaker hose, first, determine how much water you need. For example, if you are watering a container with a diameter of 16 inches, you will need 8 ounces of water per hour. - Next, find a suitable point in your garden where the hose will be attached and mark it with a flag or rock. Make sure the end of the hose is at least 18 inches from any object that could catch on fire (like overhead wires), and away from any combustible material (like leaves). - Finally, connect the hoses to the faucet and turn on the water.