SPRINKLER TALK FORUM - You Got Questions, We've Got Answers

Alexander,

The FertiGator injector is installed after the backflow prevention device, such as a Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB) or a Reduced Pressure Principle Assembly (RPZ). The backflow prevention device is required on a sprinkler system whether you have a FertiGator system or not, and protects the drinking water from contamination due to a backflow of water from the sprinkler system to the water source.
The FertiGator is, as you have stated, installed before the automatic or manual control valves that break up the sprinkler system into different zones or sections. This setup allows for fertilization to occur in all sections or zones of your yard using only one FertiGator.
The answer to your question about harming the valves is NO. The fertilizer used is in liquid form and is injected at very dilute amounts. Any brand liquid fertilizer can be used, however, we suggest the fertiGrow line of fertilizer since we have tested extensively with these products and have seen no effects on the sprinkler parts while producing very green turf and healthy flowerbeds. The HPV valves are very good valves. The FertiGator products will not affect the performance of the valves or the backflow device. As far as which backflow device you should use, you should check with your local water authority to find out their requirements. I installed a RPZ type backflow prevention device on my sprinkler system to provide the most protection possible. A lot of customers use the PVB, which protects well against back siphonage, or the Double Check Valve Assembly, which protects well against backpressure.
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Alexander,

I have not yet used the Drought Relief formula yet. I plan to try it out this Summer since we are in Houston Texas. All the data shows it to improve the plants ability to use the water that is applied more effectively.

<b>More on Drought Relief:</b>
Drought Relief is a unique blend of humectant and hygroscopic compounds that manage root zone moisture—extending the periods between required watering. Simply stated, Drought Relief has the ability to capture water vapor as it moves upward in the soil through evaporation and downward during nighttime cooling, and make it available to the roots of a plant. Drought Relief is biodegradable—reapply every 3 months or as needed. The most effective application of Drought Relief is made through fertigation systems, injecting it into the irrigation system.

<b>Fertigation Application:</b>
Drought Relief can be applied through fertigation systems consistent with fertigation frequency and fertilizer volumes. Applied through fertigation systems, with high water volume and low Drought Relief dilution rates coupled with the synergism of fertilizers and biostimulants, etc. Drought Relief has shown effectiveness at up to 1/2 the application volumes required for normal spray applications.
Drought Relief applications should be applied at a rate of 1.0 oz/ 1000 sq. ft (43 oz./ acre) on a monthly basis through the fertigation system. For curative and best and immediate results, especially during hot dry weather, or water restrictions, an initial application rate of 1 gallon per acre should be applied through fertigation systems within the first 30 days. Isolated problem areas may require supplemental spray applications to be corrected.

<b>Turf:</b>
Apply 6 oz. per 1,000 sq. ft. (2 gallons per acre) by spray or drench. For best results, apply to a moist soil. Water in with at least 1/10 inch of water within 2 hours after application. If applied through a fertigation system, it is not necessary to insure Drought Relief is washed off foliage and into the soil. Additional Drought Relief may be required to correct difficult and extreme dry spots. Drought Relief may be applied at up to 5 times the general application rate as a single treatment or multiple applications.