Seep hoses are plastic or rubber pipes with hundreds of minute holes along one side of their length. They may be positioned so that the holes face upwards to produce a fine spray over a rectangular area (good for lawns), or with the holes facing downwards so that the water seeps out of them to gently saturate the surrounding soil area (good for plants or crops grown in rows).

Seep hoses can deliver water to plants slowly, evenly and efficiently at a rate of 2 gallons per hour. However, if you have high water pressure you may need to install a pressure regulator to prevent the hose from leaking unevenly or bursting.

A soaker (or weeping) hose is a variation of the seep hose, made from a network of porous hoses wound through the flowers or garden area requiring water. It is a controlled method of watering that reduces evaporation and run-off and uses up to 70% less water than conventional methods. As the water fills the hose, pressure builds up and expands the hose wall opening the tiny holes that seep water slowly to saturate the ground at the plants' roots.

The system may be positioned on the soil surface or may be buried at a depth of 10-15 cm (4-6 in) below the surface as a permanent irrigation system. It is ideal for watering outdoor or indoor crops such as strawberries, peas, beans, tomatoes or cucumbers.