The Ebb and Flow Mat capillary irrigation system is an extremely versatile irrigation system that can be installed on benches or directly onto the ground. Most of the time KISSS Ebb and Flow MAT is installed very easily and with little modification to the existing site. This is especially true when utilizing existing indoor or outdoor benches.  Ground installation can be very simple as well.  Typically cold frames need little or no modification.  Our recommended preparation, however, is using a compactor or evenly raked gravel base.  Here is an example of how Ebb and Flow capillary mat is installed on the ground (below).

PREPARATION IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS: In most cases, some preparatory work needs to be carried out to adapt existing sites to Ebb and Flow Mat.  This is a major advantage when compared with other systems where greater attention must be given to leveling and/or changes in benches are required (e.g. to install traditional capillary or ebb and flow systems).  Ebb and Flow MAT can usually be installed on top of existing ground cover or benches and overhead irrigation systems left in place if desired.

Tailing of the mat is essential to assist drainage. Outdoors, this will be at the end of the mat. In greenhouses tailing will be normally at the end of the bench.  In some circumstances, such as very long flat benches tailing may be off to one side using the sleeve to catch and direct water to a collection point. 

Elbows and T-pieces are used to connect the Ebb and Flow MAT irrigation pipe to the grower’s water supply, timing, filtration and pressure reduction equipment, as required.