Drip Irrigation
Drip Irrigation is the most efficient water and nutrient delivery system for growing crops. It delivers water and nutrients directly to the plant’s root zone, in the right amounts, at the right time, so each plant gets exactly what it needs, when it needs it, to grow optimally. It enables farmers to produce higher yields while saving on water as well as fertilizers, energy.
How does it work?
Water and nutrients are delivered across the field in pipes called ‘dripelines’ featuring small units known as ‘drippers’. Each dripper emits drops containing water and fertilizer, resulting in the uniform application of water and nutrients direct to each plant’s root zone, across an entire field.
Why Drip Irrigation:
- Water Savings: Drip irrigation minimizes water wastage due to evaporation and runoff. Unlike other methods, it delivers water directly to the plant’s root zone, ensuring optimal utilization. In fact, it achieves an impressive 95-100% water use efficiency1.
- Land Utilization: Drip irrigation works uniformly across any topography and soil type, covering 100% of the land. Farmers can maximize their available space without wasting water or nutrients1.
- Energy Efficiency: Drip systems operate effectively even at low water pressure, reducing energy requirements for pumping. This energy-saving feature benefits both farmers and the environment1.
- Fertilizer and Crop Protection: Drip irrigation allows precise application of fertilizers and crop protection products directly to the root zone. There’s no leaching, ensuring efficient use of these resources1.
Limitations for Farmers & Demerits
- Drip irrigation dripline rolling out and winding after every crop season.
- Row to row and plant to plant geometry has to be meticulously planned.
- Dip / emitter holes getting blocked due to salt, chemicals and fertilizer over a period of time.
- Acid cleaning and flushing of the system.
- Water filtration system cleaning and replacement.
- Salt deposition in the root zone is an issue to be managed, otherwise affects crop growth.
- Dripline and emitters prone to damage by pest / rodents / farm cattle.
- Storage and recycling of dripline after season. Prone to theft.
- Plastic is not bio-degradable and hence an environment hazard.