01
Excavate
If inground, dig a trench to the required depth. Ensure a level base to set the SIC on. The SIC channel sits below the planting medium.
Product Specifications
Sub-Irrigation Channels (SIC)
The WaterUps Sub-Irrigation Channel range delivers modular, drop-in wicking reservoir systems designed for large-scale commercial landscape installations. Available in Standard and Mini size to suit any project scale.
“The SIC system transformed our street tree program. We’ve reduced watering visits from weekly to monthly, and tree survival rates in the first year have gone from 60% to 98%.”
— Council Landscape Architect, NSW
Technical Specifications
Standard SIC Channel
The standard WaterUps® Sub-Irrigation Channel holds 51.5 litres per unit and is designed for large-scale in-ground installations including street trees, median strips, and rain gardens. Channels connect end-to-end for unlimited linear runs.
| Channel Dimensions | 1340mm (L) × 470mm (W) × 160mm (H) |
|---|---|
| Reservoir Capacity | 51.5 litres per channel |
| Material | 100% Recycled Polypropylene (PP) |
| Colour | Black |
| Weight (empty) | 7.2 kg |
| Load Bearing | Pedestrian and light vehicle traffic (with cover) |
| Inlet Pipe Diameter | 20mm |
| Overflow Pipe Diameter | 20mm |
| Cell Compatibility | WaterUps® Wicking Cells (3 per channel) |
| Country of Manufacture | Australia |
| Warranty | 10 years structural |
| Certifications | ISO 9001 compliant |
Key Features
- Modular design - channels connect end-to-end or in parallel
- Integrated overflow pipe prevents waterlogging and root rot
- Inlet pipe accepts standard irrigation fittings for automated top-up
- Designed for in-ground or drop-in installation - suitable for streetscapes, parks, planter retrofits, and median strips
- Compatible with stormwater capture and reuse systems
- Supports trees up to 15m canopy spread
- Suitable for WSUD rain garden integration
When to specify Mini SIC
The Mini SIC is ideal for narrow planting strips, footpath gardens, rooftop gardens and constrained urban sites where the standard SIC footprint is too large. It delivers the same wicking performance in a compact, lighter-weight form.
“The Mini SIC gave us the flexibility to retrofit existing narrow planting beds that we couldn’t address with the standard channel. It’s been a game-changer for our urban greening program.”
— Urban Landscape Architect, VIC
Technical Specifications
Mini SIC Channel
The Mini WaterUps® Sub-Irrigation Channel is a compact version of the standard SIC, holding 15 litres per unit. Designed for narrow planting strips, footpath gardens, and constrained urban sites. Channels connect end-to-end for continuous linear runs.
| Channel Dimensions | 847.4mm (L) × 258.9mm (W) × 93.5mm (H) |
|---|---|
| Reservoir Capacity | 10 litres per channel |
| Material | 100% Recycled Polypropylene (PP) |
| Colour | Black |
| Weight (empty) | 1.8 kg |
| Load Bearing | Pedestrian traffic |
| Inlet Pipe Diameter | 20mm |
| Overflow Pipe Diameter | 20mm |
| Cell Compatibility | WaterUps Mini Wicking Cells (2 per channel) |
| Country of Manufacture | Australia |
| Warranty | 10 years structural |
| Certifications | ISO 9001 compliant |
Key Features
- Compact form factor - ideal for narrow planting strips and tight urban spaces
- Connects end-to-end for continuous linear runs in confined areas
- Integrated overflow pipe prevents waterlogging
- Suitable for pedestrian-only areas including footpaths and courtyards
- Compatible with stormwater capture and reuse systems
- UV stabilised for long-term outdoor performance
- Ideal for retrofitting existing raised garden beds and planters
- Lighter weight for easier handling and installation in constrained sites
Comparison
Standard vs. Mini SIC
| Specification | Standard SIC | Mini SIC |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 1340mm | 847.4mm |
| Width | 470mm | 258.9mm |
| Height | 160mm | 93.5mm |
| Reservoir Capacity | 51.5 litres | 15 litres |
| Weight (empty) | 7.2 kg | 1.8 kg |
| Wicking Cells per Channel | 3 | 2 |
| Inlet Pipe Diameter | 20mm | 20mm |
| Load Rating | Light Vehicles | Pedestrian |
| Best Application | Street trees, median strips, large planters | Narrow strips, balconies, rooftops |
Installation Guide
How the SIC System Works
02
Install Channels
Connect SIC channels end-to-end. Install inlet and overflow pipes. Backfill around channels.
03
Place Wicking Cells
Insert WaterUps Wicking Cells into the channel. Fill cell feet with perlite wicking medium.
04
Plant & Water
Add planting medium and plants. Fill reservoir via inlet pipe.
Applications
Where SIC Channels Are Used
Street Trees
Replace traditional tree pits with a sub-irrigation reservoir that captures stormwater and reduces watering by 75%.
Median Strips
Linear installations along road medians - connect multiple channels for continuous sub-surface irrigation.
Streetscape Planters
Retrofit existing raised planters or specify new installations with integrated SIC channels.
Rain Gardens
Integrate SIC channels into bioretention cells for passive stormwater harvesting and reuse.
Parks & Open Space
Large-scale installations for public parks, sports fields, and recreational areas.
Narrow Planting Strips
Mini SIC channels are ideal for tight urban planting strips where the standard SIC footprint is too large.