The goal of irrigation is to encourage plant growth while minimising soil erosion and water loss. To choose the right irrigation system you will need to have a knowledge of soil, equipment, plant species and land formation.
Drip Irrigation Systems
Commonly used in orchards, vineyards and high-value vegetable crops, drip irrigation systems consist of a network of tubes that have small holes or emitters. They can be placed above or below the soil’s surface and slowly drip water into the soil over long periods.
Advantages include :
Uses 30–50% less water than other systems
Prevents soil erosion and nutrient runoff
Continuous flow allows water to penetrate deep into the soil and down to the roots
Controls fungal growth
Easy to modify
Sprinkler Irrigation
In sprinkler irrigation systems, water flows through a series of pipes and is delivered in a fine spray to specific areas. Micro sprinklers are particularly effective for tree crops. They also use less water and are cheaper to run.
Advantages include :
Affordable and easy to set up
Allows even distribution of water
Easy to covers large areas
Water at your chosen time of day to minimise evaporation
Centre Pivot Irrigation
A centre pivot irrigation system is self-propelled and works with the use of a central pipe with outlets rotating around a central pivot point. It works like the sprinkler irrigation system, but it is much bigger and is supported by steel or aluminium towers.
Advantages include :
Water is distributed evenly
Covers large areas in a short period of time
Prevents water runoff
Operates at a lower pressure saving energy
Furrow Irrigation Systems
Furrow irrigation is a form of surface irrigation where small parallel channels are created and filled with water. Crops are grown on the ridges between the channels. Furrow irrigation is suitable for a wide range of crops, especially row crops like corn, sunflower, sugarcane and soybean and those that would be damaged by flooding like tomatoes and beans.