Preparing Your Farm for the Short Rains: Essential Irrigation Setup Tips

As the short rains begin across Kenya, many farmers are preparing their land for a new planting season. But while rainfall is a blessing, relying on it alone can be risky — especially with the changing weather patterns. That’s why having a proper irrigation system in place before the rains fully set in is one of the smartest decisions you can make for your farm.

At Bestfix Irrigation, we help farmers, gardeners, and agribusiness owners get ready for the season with reliable and affordable irrigation solutions. Here’s how to prepare your farm and make the most out of the short rains.

1. Assess Your Farm’s Water Source and Needs

Before installing or upgrading your irrigation system, take time to evaluate your water source. Whether you’re using a borehole, river, dam, or water tank, ensure that the supply is clean and sustainable.

Then, consider your crop type and field size.

• Vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and sukuma wiki thrive with drip irrigation.
• Cereals or pasture may benefit from sprinkler or rainhose systems.
• Greenhouses require controlled systems with precise water distribution.

This assessment helps you choose the most efficient setup — saving you both water and energy.

2. Choose the Right Irrigation System for the Season

Not all irrigation systems are created equal. Each has its advantages depending on your farming goals and the available water pressure.

✅ Drip Irrigation Kits – Perfect for vegetable gardens and greenhouses. They deliver water directly to the root zone, reducing wastage.
✅ Rainhose Irrigation – Ideal for open-field crops. It’s affordable and quick to install, using even low water pressure.
✅ Sprinklers and Rainguns – Great for larger farms or lawns. They mimic natural rainfall and can cover wide areas efficiently.
✅ HDPE Pipes and Fittings – The backbone of any irrigation setup. Durable, leak-proof, and built to last through multiple seasons.

At Bestfix Irrigation, we stock all these systems and offer free guidance to help you select what fits your farm best.

3. Inspect and Maintain Your Equipment

Before the rains begin, check your existing irrigation system for:

• Leaks or cracks in HDPE pipes
• Blocked drippers or sprinkler nozzles
• Loose or worn-out fittings
• Damaged filters or valves

A few small repairs can prevent big losses during the peak of the season. If you need replacements, you can easily get quality fittings and accessories from Bestfix Irrigation — tested and trusted by farmers nationwide.

4. Set Up a Proper Water Management Schedule

Even during the rainy season, irrigation remains vital for consistent moisture levels — especially during dry spells between rains.

Create a watering schedule based on:

• Crop growth stage
• Soil type (sandy soils dry faster than clay soils)
• Local rainfall pattern

Automating your system with simple valves or timers can save you time and ensure your crops never dry out.

5. Work with Experts for Installation

A well-installed irrigation system is an investment that pays off for years. Poor installations, on the other hand, lead to water loss, uneven irrigation, and frequent breakdowns.

Our Bestfix technicians are professionally trained to install drip systems, HDPE lines, rainguns, and greenhouse setups with precision. Whether you’re in Nairobi or upcountry, we can help you set up your system on time — ready for the short rains.

Final Tip: Start Early, Stay Ahead

Don’t wait for heavy rains to start preparing. Early setup allows you to test your system, adjust pressure, and ensure every corner of your farm is covered.

At Bestfix Irrigation, we’re here to make your farming journey smoother, greener, and more profitable.

Need Help Getting Started?

Contact Bestfix Irrigation today for personalized irrigation advice and installation support.

📍 Visit our stores along Eastern Bypass Kamakis, Next to Kidani Mabati Factory,The Tripple Two Address, Mapping Stage
💬 WhatsApp | Call: 0795 654 889
🌐 Website: www.bestfix.co.ke
📸 Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok – @BestfixIrrigation