What’s New for Fall 2025: Irrigation Products to Know Before Winter

By: Gerad VandenBussche, VP of Vanden Bussche Irrigation

Fall moves fast when you’re trying to close out projects and prep irrigation systems before the freeze. You’re checking fittings, replacing timers, blowing out lines, and hoping you’re not too late to grab the parts you need. We know how critical it is to stay ahead of inventory, especially when supply chains can change without warning. That’s why we’ve put together this update to help you plan smarter.

Here are the products worth watching, what’s new in 2025, and why fall is the time to make final system upgrades.

What’s Changed in 2025?

Each year brings updates to pricing, availability, and design, and 2025 is no exception. You’ve likely already seen the move toward smarter tech and locally sourced products. Contractors are asking more about automation and efficiency, and irrigation brands are answering with solutions that save both time and water.

 

More clients are also requesting systems that manage soil moisture more effectively and adjust to shifting weather. That’s where the latest tools come in.

 

Trinus Poly Pipe: Built for Quick Fall Retrofits

 

Let’s start with something simple but essential, and that’s poly pipe. Trinus has made a strong impact this season with its high-quality poly pipe, manufactured right here in Canada. It’s flexible, durable, and sized to fit most systems used across Ontario and the northeast.

 

Why it stands out:

 

  • Sourced locally, so you’re not stuck waiting on overseas shipments
  • Ideal for last-minute fall irrigation maintenance or cold-weather retrofits
  • Works with both new installs and seasonal repairs

 

Whether you’re laying fresh lines before frost or patching damage, Trinus pipe gives you fewer delays. Supply is solid right now, so if you need it, fall is the time to stock up.

 

CropX Soil Sensor: Smarter Moisture Control

 

The CropX soil sensor is one of the smarter tools we’ve introduced in our agriculture market recently. It’s a favourite among ag clients who rely on detailed soil data to manage water efficiently and support crop health.  

 

Why it matters in fall:

 

  • Tracks soil moisture, temperature, and EC for accurate irrigation scheduling
  • Sends real-time data from the field
  • Works with cloud platforms so you can check readings without visiting the site

 

If your clients are looking for water savings or healthier turf heading into spring, this sensor makes a strong addition. It adds value to your service while giving property managers something they can monitor year-round.

 

uMetos Weather Station: Advanced Planning for Ag and Turf 

 

uMetos weather stations go far beyond a simple rain sensor. They combine real-time and forecast data to adjust irrigation plans based on actual conditions, and not just timers. These stations are designed for farms, golf courses, and high-value turf sites.

 

Here’s what sets uMetos apart:

 

  • Monitors rainfall, wind, evapotranspiration, and more
  • Integrates with fertigation and crop models for ag clients
  • Helps contractors deliver premium service with fewer callbacks

 

uMetos is gaining momentum with larger operations because it simplifies decision-making. When fall irrigation maintenance includes prepping for next year, this tool helps you back up your recommendations with real data.

 

Rain Bird ESP-ME3 Controller: Smarter Seasonal Adjustments 

 

The Rain Bird ESP-ME3 continues to be a top choice for residential and small commercial jobs. It’s reliable, expandable, and straightforward to program. The 2025 version brings better mobile connectivity and smoother seasonal adjustment features.

 

Why it’s a strong option in fall:

 

  • Adjusts automatically for shorter days and cooler nights
  • Wi-Fi ready with the LNK2 plug-in for remote access
  • Simple interface that reduces installation and support time

 

If you’re finishing up fall installs or replacing older controllers, this unit covers everything you need. It also helps cut down on service calls when clients forget to change their settings.

 

Why Fall Is the Right Time to Upgrade 

Fall isn’t just about shutting systems down. It’s also when you see what didn’t perform well over the summer. This is your chance to swap out old parts, suggest upgrades, and help clients get ready for spring.

 

Use this time to:

 

  • Replace cracked fittings or outdated controllers
  • Add sensors before the ground freezes
  • Recommend products with stronger cold-weather durability

 

Fall irrigation system maintenance is more than blowing out lines; it’s about preparing your systems and your clients for the year ahead.

 

What Contractors Are Asking Right Now

 

Across the province, contractors are asking the same questions. What’s in stock? How fast can I get it? Can you help with last-minute installs?

 

That’s where we step in. At VBI, we keep a focused inventory of the parts that matter most during fall irrigation maintenance, no extras, no delays. If you’ve got a job that can’t wait, we’ll help you solve it quickly.

 

Stay Ahead of the Fall Rush 

You’re probably wrapping up installs, booking winterizations, and trying to squeeze in one more job before the frost sets in. That’s why product availability is so critical right now. Fall irrigation maintenance can’t be put on hold because of backorders or long shipping delays.

 

Here’s what you can do:

 

  • Build your parts list now; think pipe, sensors, controllers
  • Check compatibility with current systems
  • Ask about local availability so you’re not caught scrambling

 

Stock Up Before Winter 

You don’t want to be the contractor chasing down parts when snow is in the forecast. You’ve got projects to finish and crews to manage. And when something breaks at the last minute, it’s much easier to have spares ready than to wait on delivery.

Stock up before winter and talk to us at VBI about what’s new and what fits your system.

We’ll make sure you get the right products, on time, with support from a team that knows irrigation.

Visit Vanden Bussche Irrigation to check availability, ask a question, or build your fall order today.

 

FAQs

 

Q: What’s the best time to perform fall irrigation maintenance?

A: Most contractors start in mid-September and finish by early November. Timing depends on frost risk in your area. Aim to schedule work before overnight lows stay close to freezing.

 

Q: Do I need to upgrade my controller if it’s still working?

A: If your current controller doesn’t offer seasonal adjustment, remote access, or sensor support, it may be time to replace it. New models provide water savings and easier programming. The Rain Bird ESP-ME3 is one of the best options available.

 

Q: Can soil sensors work in colder months?

A: Yes, sensors like CropX are designed to handle fall and early winter conditions. Data slows during dormancy, but you can still track deep soil moisture. This prepares you for spring irrigation planning.

 

Q: Do you sell directly to contractors, or only distributors?

A: We sell directly to contractors and also support municipal and commercial clients. Orders can be placed through our mobile app, over the phone, or in person. Our team is here to help you choose the right products.

 

Q: What if I need parts fast for a last-minute fall job?

A: We stock the key items you’ll need for fall irrigation maintenance so you can get them without delay. Call us to confirm availability right away. Delivery and pick-up options are available depending on your location.