In order to ensure the growth and development of the crops, irrigation is the practice of artificially delivering water to the crops. It is a crucial part of agriculture since it aids in providing crops with water in regions with inadequate rainfall. Increased agricultural output and quality, as well as a reduction in the negative effects of drought and other climatic factors, are all benefits of irrigation.
Since it feeds water straight to the plant’s roots, drip irrigation is thought to be the most effective method of irrigation. With this technique, water is sprayed evenly and gradually over the soil’s surface and allowed to seep down to the plant’s root zone. Because drip irrigation feeds water directly to the plants and prevents water from evaporating from the soil surface, it helps to conserve water and reduce water wastage.
Surface irrigation, sprinkler irrigation, drip irrigation, subsurface irrigation, and manual irrigation are the five basic forms of irrigation. The most used method of irrigation is surface irrigation, which uses flooding or furrow irrigation to apply water to the soil’s surface. Using sprinkler heads, water is applied to the soil’s surface during sprinkler irrigation. The most effective method of irrigation is drip irrigation, which provides water straight to the plant’s root zone. In subsurface irrigation, which is frequently employed in greenhouse agriculture, water is applied directly to the plant’s root zone. In manual irrigation, water is applied to the plants using buckets, cans, or other portable tools.
A form of irrigation system called perennial irrigation includes continuously applying water to the crops all year round. It helps to guarantee that the crops receive sufficient water supply throughout their growth cycle and is frequently utilized in places with restricted water availability. Drip irrigation, subsurface irrigation, or surface irrigation can all be used to create perennial irrigation.
As it involves applying water to the soil’s surface by flooding or furrow irrigation, flood irrigation is sometimes referred to as surface irrigation. This method of irrigation is frequently used to irrigate vast expanses of crops like rice, wheat, and cotton in regions with an ample supply of water. Flood irrigation is less effective than other forms of irrigation because it frequently causes soil erosion and water waste.
Which expensive irrigation system is not mentioned in the article. It primarily covers the value of irrigation in ensuring that crops receive an adequate quantity of water and gives an overview of various irrigation techniques.