Multi-Outlet Drippers (MODS)

A multi-outlet dripper puts one emitter on the lateral and splits its flow to several pots through short runs of micro-tube. On a container block that means fewer punches in the poly, fewer emitters to buy and clean, and a lateral that runs down the aisle instead of across every row. ML Irrigation supplies Netafim, Maxijet and Antelco multi-outlet assemblies and the components to build or repair them, and you can ask us about sizing a block before you order.

Which multi-outlet assembly fits my container block?

Start with the pot layout. The Netafim Flat 4-Way Multi-Outlet Dripper Assembly puts one pressure-compensating WPC Jr. dripper at 2.11 gph on the lateral and runs four tubes to four pots. The standard version has four equal tubes for pots set at the same distance; the short 2 + 2 staggered version suits pots set in pairs. Tube lengths of 18", 24", 30" and 36" cover most spacings. Measure to the far pot, not the near one, and leave slack so a pot can be shifted without pulling the tube.

Maxijet takes a stake-first approach. Its Dual, Barb & Spider Stake Assemblies put each head on a 6", 13" or tall 13" stake, and a spider assembly feeds several containers from one take-off, so a bed of pots runs off a single outlet. Antelco Multi-Outlet Dripper Assemblies do the same job through micro-tube from a single take-off. Maxijet and Antelco assemblies also appear under Micro-sprinklers, because the same assemblies are shown there as stake-mounted heads.

Pressure compensation earns its cost on long laterals and sloping ground, where a non-compensating assembly overwaters the low end and starves the high end.

What do I need to get right on filtration, pressure and layout?

Filtration first. Every multi-outlet assembly ends in small orifices and narrow micro-tube, so a screen or disc filter at the head end is not optional; grit a spray stake would pass will plug a dripper. Then hold the pressure: check the range the dripper is rated for and fit a pressure regulator at the zone if your supply runs above it. A pressure-compensating dripper holds its rated flow across its working range, which is what gives the first pot and the last the same water.

The mistakes we see most: one assembly feeding pots of different sizes, so the small pot floods while the large one stays dry; tubing left loose so a crew flips it out of the pot; and heads cut off with a knife when a plant is pulled. Match pot sizes on an assembly, and match tubing to stake: Maxijet clip and barb stakes take .205" OD and .240 vinyl. Maxijet's 13" stakes have a side hole that keeps the vinyl tucked in, and some carry a second hole that grips crimped tubing to shut that head off without a cut.