Page 23 - Griffin Gazette - March 2025

Now that labor costs are the same for both inline and
online drip: let’s re-evaluate which is the best fit of your
operation. When choosing whether inline or online drip is
right for you consider four factors: finished product size,
operation size, site conditions, and harvesting method.

• Product Size: Drip tape works well for 8”-9” mum
pans but may not provide enough water for larger
12”-14” decorative pots with multiple plugs. Online
drips are better for premium containers.

• Operation Size: Drip tape is cost-effective for
large-scale production (sold in 3,000-9,000 ft rolls),
whereas online drip is better suited for smaller
growers with less than 1,000 mums in production.

• Site Conditions: If your site has more than a 2%
slope, online drip is better at keeping pressure
constant throughout the line while delivering water
directly to the plants.

• Harvesting Method: Drip tape is ideal for full-line
harvesting, while online drip is better for intermittent
crop removal, preventing uneven water distribution.

Is cheaper always better? Drip tape is best for large
operations with smaller pots, flat terrain, and full-line
harvesting. Online drip offers flexibility, better pressure
control, and less breakage. You may even use both—
drip tape for small pots and online drip for premium
containers. Griffin can help you with both options.

To learn more about our custom pre-assembled drip
tube visit Griffins.com and click on our banner. For drip
tape and other irrigation inquiries contact your sales rep,
call 800-888-0054 and ask for an irrigation specialist, or
email irrigationdept@griffinmail.com.