Drip irrigation vs other irrigation methods

Hand watering: Although hand watering helps, it is not the most efficient method. There is a good chance plants will either be over-watered or under-watered.

Hand watering photo from pixabay.com

Sprinklers: Overhead sprinklers or hose-end sprinklers that spray a mist are less effective at putting water where the roots can properly use it. Also, mist from overhead watering evaporates quickly and is often blocked by foliage before it reaches the ground. Wet leaves are susceptible to diseases and damage from snails and slugs.