A garden sprinkler is not something that everyone needs for their garden…
.. but they do have a fantastic range of purposes!
They are great for the summer holidays where you want to spend time in your garden relaxing.
(Not standing up, holding a hose or watering can!)
Owning a sprinkler enables you to keep the lawn/garden alive and watered and at the same time you can sit and enjoy the weather!
They also make great fun on hot days for children and dogs!
Here is a quick summary of our top picks for the best garden sprinkler, you can read more detailed and in-depth reviews further down.
Hozelock Rectangular Sprinkler- Price: ££
- Coverage: 180-260m
- Weight: 358g
- High quality with a range of settings
Hozelock Round Sprinkler- Price: ££
- Coverage: 254m²
- Weight: 259g
- With its range of settings suits all your needs
Silverline Sprinkler- Price: £
- Coverage: 3m²
- Weight: 154g
- For small gardens or patios
Karcher Sprinkler- Price: £££
- Coverage: 320m²
- Weight: 954g
- A very high quality piece of kit by reputable brand
Best Garden Sprinklers
1. Hozelock Round Garden Sprinkler Plus 254m² / 314m²
What does it do?
The Hozelock Garden Sprinkler Plus has four arms that rotate and either spray as a jet for watering turf and established plants or a delicate mist spray for young plants or seedlings.
There are two jets and the unit has a ‘sled’ base so it will be stable sitting on any surface.
The second most expensive sprinkler in our list, for the extra money you are getting a lot of functionality.
- Coverage: 254m² (up to 18m total diameter) but can also be bought to cover 314m squared for a little more money.
- Dimensions: 20 x 10 x 23 cm
- Weight: 259g
2. Hozelock Rectangular Garden Sprinkler Plus 180m² / 200m² / 260m²
What does it do?
The Hozelock Rectangular Sprinkler Plus is a great little gadget that comes in three sizes.
To suit all garden sizes.
The 180m², 200m² and the 260m² Hozelock sprinklers are specially design to give powerful and even water coverage.
(It doesn’t matter what the water pressure is.)
You will still get an excellent flow thanks to the water powered gear drive motor.
There are 15 jets and the unit has a ‘sled’ base so it will be stable sitting on any surface.
There is no fine spray feature.
The Hozelock plus sprinkler shape is a rectangle, which could be more useful for standard square or rectangle lawns
(Area of coverage can be adjusted via the simple red lever.)
- Coverage: 180m², 200m² or 260m²
- Dimensions: The smallest sprinkler is measures 9 x 12 x 41.5 cm
- Weight: 358g
3. Silverline Impulse Garden Sprinkler
What does it do?
A classic looking garden sprinkler from Silverline.
It has the ability to cover up to 520m².
An affordable sprinkler that pokes into the ground, so it wont blow away.
The only downside is that the spike is not as robust as you would probably like it to be.
(So you need to be a bit gentle with it.)
It takes a bit of getting used to – the instruction card is not the most informative.
But when you have worked it out it is a fantastic little gadget.
You are able to set the spray angle at 90, 180, 270 or 360 degrees, which is super useful.
Especially if you are wanting to be in one area of the garden whilst the sprinkler is in use (and not get soaked!)
The water flow is good, regardless of the water pressure.
You can also use your regular Hozelock connectors with it.
- Coverage: up to 520m²
- Dimensions: 33.3 x 11.9 x 6.6 cm
- Weight: 306g
4. Wisdomwell Garden 3 Arm Sprinkler
What does it do?
A super simple and to the point sprinkler.
No fancy features or calibration needed.
Just plug in and go, you can use standard Hozelock connectors with the Bradas garden sprinkler.
It works very well even with low pressure water and is super small so easy to store.
It is the cheapest sprinkler in our list and the most basic.
But if you have never owned a lawn sprinkler before and only want to spend a few pounds to try one out then perhaps give it a go.
Its spray diameter is perfect for most gardens, and can easily be moved if you want to use in different areas.
One thing to bare in mind is that the unit is very light so could easily be blown or tipped up.
Maximum 4 bar pressure, if you have higher pressure, the sprinkler will leak.
This sprinkler can also be bought in a slightly larger size for bigger gardens, for just a couple of pounds more.
5. Kärcher Premium Oscillating Sprinkler – OS 5.320SV
What does it do?
The most premium water sprinkler in our 10 picks.
This really is a wonderful, well though out product.
If you’re a proud gardener is the perfect accessory to fill you with joy every time you use it.
It’s a robust and well made beautiful device.
The oscillating sprinklers ensure a great, even coverage.
This garden sprinkler guarantees stability with a strong base and two fold out anchor spikes for extra stability.
(Ensuring it will stay put, even on the most uneven ground.)
We love the adjustable spray patterns and the individual turn off buttons.
(You can tailor the coverage perfectly to your garden.)
It has a huge area coverage of up to 320m² and has a long life.
The Kärcher Premium has a robust and durable gear system with a water flow regulator so you can fully customise the volume of water used.
Bonus features include a rotating spray guard, that flips over a portion of the nozzles so you don’t get soaked when making adjustments.
As part of the sturdy base, there is a hanging hook for easy storage and an integrated pin so you can clean the nozzles if any become blocked.
(This is hidden away and can be accessed by turning a dial.)
It can be used with your regular Kärcher / Hozelock hose connectors.
- Coverage: up to 320m²
- Dimensions: 54.6 x 16 x 8.8 cm
- Weight: 971g
6. Gardena Premium Full or Part Circle Pulse Sprinkler
What does it do?
The Oasis Ahead sprinkler gives pulsating water coverage with up to 360 degrees rotation.
This sprinkler comfortable covers the largest area in our comparison list.
Ranging from 490m² depending on your water pressure.
You can easily set the distance you want the water to reach using the large adjusting knob.
It can be used, like most other water sprinklers, for simply watering your lawn or flower beds, for lawns or for just plain old Summer water fun.
Or as part of an irrigation system, or as a fun summer splashing activity for children or water loving dogs.
One great little features is the ‘connector thread’ on the unit, which allow you to connect multiple sprinklers onto the same loop.
The base unit is a robust and heard wearing, plastic sled with integrated metal inserts.
Being a Gardena product, it is definitely high quality, you have the ability for precise fine adjustment of the flow control. the metal hammer and precision nozzle are made of quality materials to endure years of use.
The cost of this sprinkler is significantly more than some of the other ones in this list, however, just like the Karcher sprinkler, the added quality, level of control and longevity of use is worth the extra upfront cost.
There is a 5 year warranty with this sprinkler also. If is cared for properly, it will likely last a lot longer though.
7. Hozelock Round Sprinkler Pro 314m²
What does it do?
A great all rounder from Hozelock.
The sled design ensures stability on uneven ground and in borders, Although plastic can give off a ‘cheap’ vibe, actually, when it comes to water, having a plastic tool can ofter be better as there is no chance of rust.
The Hozelock loud sprinkler can water a full or part circle.
The coverage is up to 314m², which means up to 20m in diameter.
Much like the other Hozelock, this one also has two spray patterns, jet spray for lawns or fine spray for delicate seeds.
There are 5 jets, which give a great amount of water flow, regardless of the water pressure. It can be used with water pressure from 1 – 10 bar. This is good news are some of the sprinklers leak if you have the tap open too much and the water pressure is too high, they just can’t take it and leaks or break.
We like this one because it is quiet too.
So you can be peacefully reading at one end of the garden whilst hands free watering the garden at the other end!
- Coverage: up to 314m²
- Weight: 227g
- Can be bought with a sled base or a spike base
8. Silverline 8-Pattern Dial Sprinkler
What does it do?
The Silverline, considering its very budget appeal, is packed with quite a few features.
How long it will last is another question.
But at the end of the day, if you’re only after a cheap sprinkler to keep your grass alive through the short British summer.
And the sprinkler you buy will most likely end up ‘somewhere’ in the shed over winter… this one might be just be for you!
- It can be used with Hozelock fittings
- Has 8 patterns
- 360 degree rotation
Pretty impressive!
The spray patterns are:
- single jet
- double jet
- small circle mist
- large circle spray
- large circle mist
- large circle spray
- small semi circle
- large semi circle
That all sounds pretty confusing but if you look at the top of the sprinkler, there is a convenient little symbol code for each setting, that logical describes the setting.
It is not going to be the very best sprinkler in the world at this price.
But will certainly keep you amused for a while playing with all the different settings.
It doesn’t cover a huge area, so if you have the patience to pull it around the garden every now and again then you will be well away.
- Coverage: around 3m²
- Dimensions: Very small and round.
- Weight: 154g
9. Greenkey Metal Base Pulsating Sprinkler
What does it do?
The Greenkey sprinkler looks high quality straight away thanks to its robust looking solid metal base.
It is kind of vintage looking, like an old piece of farm machinery.
Which is always a bonus.
It feels luxurious and is heavy. The components feel durable and resilient to knocks.
The upside: there’s no spike that goes into the ground that could snap.
The downside: If you accidentally kick it with bare feet you will regret it!!
It covers a circle of up to 25 metre diameter and needs 2 bar water pressure for the most effective operation.
(The water bar pressure scale goes from 1 – 10).
The head in made of zinc and the hose connector is brass for a long lasting life.
In terms of dispersing the water, it uses a traditional pulsating head to spray the water evenly.
This works very effectively.
An all round great addition to the garden.
- Coverage: circle of up to 25 metre diameter
- Weight: 862g
10. GRÜNTEK Garden Oscillating Sprinkler System
What does it do?
A cheap and cheerful oscillating sprinkler. It costs less than half of the Karcher and Gardena similar alternatives.
The sprinkler comes with quick adaptor screws to fit your hose and covers up to 336m², with a blasting width of up to 21 x 25m.
It has 16 nozzles and oscillates (the nozzles move back and forth in a regular rhythm) for even water distribution.
This water sprinkler has been designed with garden life in mind, with a sturdy frame to withstand dogs, kids, weather and even accidental drops.
According the the manufacturer, this sprinkler can easily withstand the weight of an adult male standing on it, (as proven in their pictures of the product). So if you accidentally tread on it, not looking where you’re going in the garden, you won’t have to buy a replacement sprinkler.
It is designed for rectangular lawns ideally, If you have large circular lawn, you may be frustrated that it doesn’t cover your entire grass area.
You need a fairly good water pressure to make the most if this water sprinkler.
It has universal connections so can be used with your Hozelock hose for example. there is also a hidden pin inside the sprinkler unit- the pin is to help you unblock any heads than become clogged.
- Coverage: up to 336m²
- Weight: 298g
Are Garden Sprinklers Good for the Environment?
Garden sprinklers are popular tools for maintaining lush, healthy lawns and gardens. They also provide hours of fun for children in the garden.
However, when considering their impact on the environment, it’s important to assess their benefits and potential drawbacks. Let’s explore whether garden sprinklers are truly good for the environment.
Water Conservation
One of the key concerns regarding garden sprinklers is water usage.
While it’s true that sprinklers consume water, modern sprinklers are designed with water conservation in mind. Many models feature adjustable settings, allowing you to control the water flow, duration, and coverage area.
By customising these settings to match your garden’s needs, you can minimise water wastage and promote efficient water usage.
Targeted Watering
Unlike traditional methods such as hose watering, garden sprinklers offer targeted watering capabilities.
By directing water precisely where it’s needed, you can avoid overwatering non-garden areas, reducing runoff and water waste.
Additionally, some sprinklers feature mechanisms that prevent water loss due to wind or evaporation, further enhancing water efficiency.
Timing & Automation
Garden sprinkler systems sometimes come with programmable timers, allowing you to schedule watering sessions during optimal times of the day.
By avoiding peak sunlight hours, you can minimise water loss through evaporation.
Automated systems also eliminate the risk of human error, ensuring consistent and efficient watering, even when you’re not available to manually operate the sprinklers.
If you are buying a basic sprinkler that attaches to your hose, you can opt to pair it with a hose timer that will ensure it only comes on when you want it to.
Drought Resistance
In regions prone to drought or water scarcity, garden sprinklers can be beneficial.
These systems help maintain the health of lawns and plants, reducing the risk of plant stress or death during dry spells.
By providing controlled and targeted watering, garden sprinklers assist in preserving green spaces and supporting biodiversity, even in water-restricted areas.
Reduced Pesticide Usage
When used correctly, garden sprinklers can reduce the need for chemical fertilisers and pesticides.
Proper watering techniques promote healthy plant growth, making plants more resilient to pests and diseases.
With a well-maintained lawn or garden, you may find yourself relying less on synthetic chemicals, contributing to a healthier ecosystem.
Erosion Prevention
Garden sprinklers play a vital role in preventing soil erosion.
By providing consistent moisture to the soil, they help stabilize the ground, reducing the risk of runoff during heavy rain.
This helps maintain soil structure, prevents nutrient loss, and protects nearby water bodies from sediment contamination.
Environmental Responsibilities
It is essential to use garden sprinklers responsibly to ensure their environmental impact remains positive:
- Water Conservation Practices: While garden sprinklers are designed for efficiency, responsible water conservation practices are still crucial. Avoid watering during periods where water is restricted such as during a hose pipe ban, adjust settings according to the specific needs of your garden, and regularly check for leaks or malfunctions that could lead to water wastage.
- Native Plant Selection: Consider incorporating native plants into your garden, as they are better adapted to local conditions and require less water. Native plants often have deeper root systems, making them more resilient to drought and reducing the need for excessive watering.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep your sprinkler properly maintained to ensure optimal efficiency. Check for clogged nozzles, damaged pipes, or misaligned sprinkler heads, as these can lead to water waste or inefficient watering.
By employing these practices, you can maximize the benefits of garden sprinklers while minimizing their potential drawbacks.
Garden sprinklers can be environmentally friendly when used responsibly.
Through water conservation practices, targeted watering, and proper maintenance, garden sprinklers help promote efficient water usage, reduce chemical reliance, prevent soil erosion, and support healthy plant growth.
By considering the specific needs of your garden and employing responsible watering practices.
Pros of Garden Sprinklers:
- Efficient Watering: Garden sprinklers provide even and controlled water distribution, ensuring that plants receive adequate moisture without wasting water. They allow for targeted watering, reducing runoff and evaporation.
- Time-Saving: With a garden sprinkler system, you can automate the watering process, saving you time and effort. You can set timers to water your garden at specific intervals, even when you’re not available.
- Consistent Watering: Sprinklers offer consistent and regular watering, which is beneficial for plant health. They eliminate the risk of forgetting to water or underwatering your plants.
- Coverage Area: Garden sprinklers can cover large areas, making them suitable for lawns and expansive gardens. They provide comprehensive coverage, ensuring that all plants receive the necessary water.
- Versatility: There are various types of garden sprinklers available, including oscillating, rotary, and impact sprinklers. This variety allows you to choose a sprinkler type that best suits your garden size and layout.
Cons of Garden Sprinklers:
- Water Waste: Improper use or malfunctioning sprinklers can lead to water waste. Overwatering or leaks can result in water runoff or excessive water usage.
- Inefficient Watering in Windy Conditions: Wind can affect the efficiency of sprinklers, causing water to disperse unevenly or drift away from the intended target areas. This can lead to inefficient watering and water waste.
- Limited Customisation: While some sprinklers offer adjustable settings, others may have limitations in terms of spray radius, water flow rate, or coverage area. It’s important to choose a sprinkler that suits your specific garden needs.
- Potential Damage to Delicate Plants: Certain plants, such as delicate flowers or foliage, may be sensitive to direct water spray. Sprinklers that produce a strong spray or water droplets can damage or dislodge these plants.
- Maintenance Requirements: Sprinkler systems require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. This includes cleaning or replacing clogged nozzles, checking for leaks, and adjusting sprinkler heads as needed.
It’s important to weigh these pros and cons based on your specific garden requirements, climate conditions, and water availability.
Additionally, proper installation, regular maintenance, and responsible water usage practices can help mitigate some of the drawbacks associated with garden sprinklers.