If you are running a sprinkler, why not invest in a hose timer? This will allow you to programme watering times in advance, which may be useful if you are away or if you are liable to forget when to turn the water off.

Some timers may be linked to a moisture meter that will override the settings if the ground is sufficiently wet.

Static

This is the simplest style of sprinkler, primarily designed to irrigate lawns. The head is mounted onto a spike that is pushed into the ground, and delivers water in a circular, semi-circular, rectangular or fan-shape. As this system often tends to leads to the formation of puddles, the sprinkler should be moved around to achieve an even distribution.

Oscillating

An oscillating sprinkler delivers a shower of water from a series of holes along a metal bar that rocks from side to side. This produces an even spray of water over a rectangular area, the size of which may normally be adjusted to enable you to water specific areas of the garden.

Rotating

Rotating sprinklers deliver water evenly in a wide circle. The spray is delivered through nozzles on the arms, which are attached to a spinning pivot, driven by the force of the water. Most styles adjust from a gentle mist for seedlings to heavy rain on established grass. It's worth choosing a model with wheels or a sled base so you can move it whilst it is running without getting wet.

Impulse

Impulse (or pulse) sprinklers are made up of a single jet on a central pivot, which rotates in a series of pulses. It may be set on a tall stem for increased coverage and adjusted to deliver water from a full circle to narrow sections.

Walking

A walking (or travelling) sprinkler is useful for large areas with bends or slopes where other sprinklers may water unevenly. The sprinkler, driven by the force of the water, crawls in one direction along the hosepipe, covering 6-12 m (20-40 ft) per hour. The precise speed and size of area covered either side of the track will depend on the water pressure.

Underground

Permanent underground sprinkler systems are comprised of a network of buried water pipes with a series of watering heads to which hoses or sprinklers are attached. 'Pop-up' watering heads are a popular choice for these systems as they 'pop-up' whenever the water is turned on and recess into the ground when the water flow is off.

Timers are used to turn the water on and off when desired; these may be connected to moisture detectors so that the system won't turn on when it's raining or when the soil is already sufficiently damp.