Root Zone Watering System with StrataRoot Baffle System, 10" or 18", 0.25 GPM Bubbler, and ½" swing joint

A quick guide to installing the Hunter RZWS for deep tree watering.

Step 1: Dig the Hole
Dig a hole adjacent to the tree's root ball, positioning it halfway between the trunk and the edge of the canopy (the dripline). The hole should be deep enough so the top cap of the unit sits flush with the final soil grade.

Step 2: Connect the Plumbing
Using thread sealant tape, thread the 1/2-inch MPT fitting on the end of the flexible swing joint into a 1/2-inch Female Pipe Thread (FPT) tee or adapter on your underground PVC mainline.

Step 3: Position the Unit
Place the cylinder vertically in the hole. Use the flexibility of the swing joint to ensure the top grate is perfectly level with the surrounding soil to prevent tripping hazards or mower damage.

Step 4: Backfill
Backfill the hole around the outside of the cylinder with native soil or pea gravel to allow for adequate drainage. Do not put dirt inside the cylinder.

As I plant new trees this spring, how many Hunter Root Zone Watering Systems should I install per tree?
For small spring saplings and shrubs, install one or two Hunter RZWS units per plant. For larger specimen trees or established canopy trees, install three to four units evenly spaced around the dripline.

Even spacing ensures the roots grow radially in all directions, providing a stable anchor for the tree as it matures.

How does the Hunter Root Zone Watering System prevent shallow tree roots?
The Hunter RZWS delivers water directly to the deeper soil layers. Roots naturally seek moisture, so placing water deep underground encourages roots to grow downward, away from the surface and hardscapes.

Standard surface drip emitters or sprinklers keep the top layer of soil moist, which trains roots to stay shallow. Shallow roots dry out faster in summer and can lift expensive concrete sidewalks.

What size fitting does the Hunter RZWS connect to?
The Hunter RZWS includes a pre-assembled swing joint terminating in a 1/2-inch Male Pipe Thread (MPT). It must be threaded into a matching 1/2-inch Female Pipe Thread (FPT) fitting.

You can easily adapt this to a standard PVC system using a PVC tee with a threaded outlet, or attach it to poly tubing using a compression-to-FPT adapter. Always use thread sealant tape on the male threads.

Can I remove the cap on the Hunter RZWS to inspect the bubbler?
Yes, the heavy-duty locking cap on the Hunter RZWS can be unlocked and removed. This allows you full access to inspect, clean, or replace the internal pressure-compensating bubbler if necessary.

The enclosed design keeps dirt and mulch out of the cylinder while still allowing vital oxygen to exchange, promoting healthier root respiration.