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The first and only essential thing is water. It may sound silly, but some terraces and balconies, especially small ones, are built without spigots. If that is the case at your house, consult a plumber to see if one can be rigged by running a line from the kitchen or a nearby bathroom.�
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Sprinklers�
Once you have settled the water issue, you need to calculate the number of phases you need. Unless you have a penthouse and want to plant grass, you should always water with a sprinkler system. One phase of sprinkling with an entry pressure of two atmospheres, which is average, can withstand approximately 100 meters of sprinkler pipe; if you use a microdiffusion device or have to reach heights, this distance may be shorter.

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If one phase is enough, the easiest thing is to use a timer that fits right onto the tap and works with batteries. They are cheaper and easier to install and program than other methods. It is a good idea to take these timers down when they are not being used because the cold damages them and shortens their working life. For this reason it is recommended you set them up with a quick fastening device or 'rosca loca'� (they come included with some models). If you can choose, always place the timer in the shade and monitor the state of the batteries.

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Electrical programmers
If you need more than one phase, use an electrical timer that governs the whole system and an electric valve for each phase. For this you will need an electrical outlet on the terrace. Leading off from the timer is a system of 12-volt cables that go to the valves. The water flows from the general tap to the valves, and a phase emerges from each valve. As you see, things are starting to get a little complicated and in this kind of system you have to study each specific case. A lot depends on the layout of the terrace.

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Once you have connected the lead from the valve to sprinkling pipe, the rest is easy. There are pipes with holes already made, which are convenient for rows of flower beds, and closed pipes that allow you to punch holes where you need them, allowing a more personal touch. There are three kinds of sprinklers. The first work drop by drop, and waste the least amount of water. The second are micro-diffusers that send a spray up to a distance of 50 centimeters. They come with different kinds of nozzle for different needs. The third kind are adjustable which can spread water a distance of 20 centimeters or do it drop by drop. All the pipes should be firmly held in place with brackets. This will spare us problems with neighbors in case there is a surge in water pressure.

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There are also microtubes which run from the pipe to the flower pot. One tip: place the microtube through the drainage hole of the pot before planting so it is better hidden. But be careful that the microtube does not rest against the base of the pot. Place a few pebbles under the tip of the tube.

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Once the system is installed, monitor it for a few days and adjust the sprinklers so each plant gets the amount of water it needs. Don't hesitate to consult a plumbing supplier that specializes in sprinklers or a gardening store.

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