Which factor is critical to consider for sprinkler spacing and nozzle selection due to outdoor conditions?

• A. Soil pH
• B. Irrigation controller type
• C. Turf variety
• D. Wind exposure

Answer: (D)

Wind exposure is the force driving how water actually lands on the ground in outdoor irrigation. When wind is present, spray droplets get carried off target, the wetted area shifts with the wind, and evaporation can waste water before it reaches the soil. Because of that, the designed spacing between heads and the choice of nozzle must account for how wind will distort coverage. If you ignore wind, you’ll end up with dry spots or overwatering elsewhere. To compensate, you typically adjust spacing so the intended overlap still achieves uniform coverage even under wind, and you select nozzle types and patterns that minimize drift and promote reliable deposition in the target zone. Consider the prevailing wind conditions and test the system under typical conditions to fine-tune both spacing and nozzle selection.