PDC LESSON 5.3 WATERING – OVERHEAD AND DRIP IRRIGATION

 

PERMA COURSE AGRO-ECONOMY

PDC LESSON 5.3 WATERING – OVERHEAD AND DRIP IRRIGATION

 

The three most widely used irrigation systems used in nursery production are overhead and drip (or trickle).

 

•       Overhead irrigation is designed to cover a large area, and these systems are the least expensive to install. However, this method produces uneven water distribution, which can slow plant growth, encourage disease, and contribute to runoff.  

•       Large containers are usually watered with a drip or trickle system, which uses 60%-70% less water than overhead systems.

 

•       Drip irrigation systems cost more to install than overhead systems, but have superior application uniformity and efficiency. They are also less affected by wind and crop canopies, and they produce less runoff. Another advantage is that workers can continue working while the plants are being irrigated. The biggest disadvantage to trickle irrigation, besides the initial cost, is keeping the pipes and emitters clean.

 

•       A third, less-used type of irrigation system, is SUBSURFACE DRIP IRRIGATION T-Tape, which we import. Water is released at the high end and slowly percolates to the low end. These systems cost as much less to install, because we have the mainline on top of the soil and the dripline in the earth. Its only important to safe 50 % of water and energy, also on liquid fertilizer in dispensers.

Sandbeds are normally constructed using wooden sidewalls, a plastic bed liner, sand, a small tank, a drainpipe, and a float valve. It requires less labour, as sprinkler heads, timers, pumps, valves, and water-treatment systems don’t need to be monitored. 

•       Subirrigation systems are designed for zero runoff, but overhead and drip systems may require special attention. 

•       Runoff water can be collected using ditches (planted with grass to slow down water flow) or tile systems, which direct water to a pond or other holding area.

 

Filters should always be installed in each main line to reduce the likelihood of sediments building up and clogging the pipes or attachments. When installing a system, it can be either above or below ground (or both). Lay it down first on the surface while you follow your plan. Use connection pieces rather than forcing the hose round sharp bends. Flush out the system well before connecting any nozzles. And later you can put the lines in 10 cm deep, before you plant.