Agriculture irrigation

Types of agriculture irrigation

Agriculture irrigation is the artificial application of water to the fields to support crop growth. It is essential in places with scarce rainfall, as it ensures crops receive a consistent water supply. There are several methods of agricultural irrigation, each with its advantages and disadvantages, depending on factors like soil type, climate, and crop requirements. The following are some of the agricultural irrigation systems:

• Drip irrigation:

  Also known as trickle irrigation, this type of irrigation system delivers water directly to the roots of the plants through a system of tubing. It is done using a timer. The system is efficient as it minimizes water loss through evaporation and runoff, making it ideal for areas with limited water supply. It can be used for various crops, including fruit trees, vegetables, and field crops.

• Sprinkler irrigation:

  This system uses pipes, pumps, and sprinklers to spray water like natural rainfall over the crops. It is suitable for almost all types of crops and is ideal for areas with uneven topography that cannot use surface irrigation. It can also be used for gardens, lawns, and golf courses.

• Surface irrigation:

  Also known as flood irrigation, this is a traditional agriculture irrigation method that involves distributing water over the soil surface and letting it flow by gravity into the root zone of the plants. It is suitable for all soil types and is commonly used in the cultivation of rice and forage crops. It is less efficient than other methods, as it can cause water erosion and salinization.

• Subsurface irrigation:

  This agriculture irrigation method involves placing the irrigation system below the soil surface. It delivers water directly to the root zone of the plants, reducing evaporation and minimizing weed growth. It is suitable for high-value crops and areas with water scarcity.

• Central pivot irrigation:

  This system consists of a rotating pivoting structure with a long arm that moves around a central pivot point, watering a circular area of crop. It is often powered by electricity and uses hydraulic pumps and sprinklers. This irrigation system is efficient and reduces water waste. It is perfect for large, flat fields.

• Tape irrigation:

  Tape irrigation is sometimes called drip tape irrigation. It is a variation of the drip irrigation system that uses larger diameter tubing to deliver water to the plants. It is often employed in row crops such as tomatoes, peppers, and melons.

• Windmill irrigation:

  This method uses a windmill to pump water into a storage tank or directly into the irrigation system. The windmill blades turn a pump mechanism, lifting water from a well or reservoir. It is suitable for areas with consistent wind patterns and water sources at a certain depth.

• Intermittent irrigation:

  This method involves alternating periods of watering and drying. It trains plants to withstand water stress, improving drought resistance. It is suitable for certain fruit trees and can reduce water use.

Design of agriculture irrigation

For the agricultural irrigation system, the pivotal elements are the pump and the piping. The pump is the heart of the system, which facilitates the movement of water from one place to another, whereas the piping serves to channel water to the desired location.

Several kinds of pumps are available in the market, out of which the positive displacement pump and centrifugal pump are the most commonly used. Positive displacement pumps work by trapping a specific amount of water in a sealed chamber and then forcing it into the piping system. On the other hand, the centrifugal pump is designed with rotating blades that impart velocity to the water, thereby moving it into the piping.

It is also pertinent to note that the materials used for piping in the agricultural irrigation system vary according to the type of irrigation system. For example, in drip irrigation, small diameter plastic pipes made from PVC or polyethylene are preferred, whereas, in sprinkler irrigation, larger pipes are required.

Besides this, the design of agricultural irrigation systems also incorporates other components like filters, valves, and emitters. Filters are used to remove debris and particles from the water so that they do not clog the system. Valves control the flow and pressure of water within the irrigation, while emitters distribute the water to the plants in drip irrigation systems.

All in all, the design of agricultural irrigation systems comprises several components that work together to ensure efficient and effective watering of crops. It is a complex system that must be designed with precision in order to achieve maximum productivity. In this regard, the layout and design of irrigation systems can be customized based on the specific needs and requirements of different farms.

Scenarios of agriculture irrigation

• Drip Irrigation Systems:

  Drip irrigation systems are used for row crops, vegetable fields, and fruit orchards. They are also suitable for greenhouse crops and landscape irrigation. The system can be used in sandy soils, which require frequent irrigation to maintain moisture. It is also ideal for hilly or uneven fields, as it can conserve water and reduce soil erosion. Furthermore, drip irrigation is perfect for organic farms, as it reduces weed growth and minimizes water usage.

• Sprinkler Irrigation Systems:

  Sprinkler irrigation systems are commonly used for cereals, legumes, and forage crops. They are also suitable for fruit and vegetable gardens, lawns, and landscaped areas. Additionally, the system can be used for pasture and range land, as well as for golf course irrigation. Sprinkler irrigation is ideal for hilly or uneven fields and can be easily moved from one field to another. It is also suitable for all soil types and can be used in both annual and perennial crop systems.

• Subsurface Irrigation Systems:

  Subsurface irrigation systems are ideal for vegetable crops, fruit orchards, and nursery plants. They efficiently irrigate sandy soils and can be used in high-value crop production areas. The system is also suitable for integrated pest management (IPM) farms, as it reduces water contact with foliage and minimizes pest habitat. Moreover, subsurface irrigation can be utilized in golf courses and landscaped areas, providing direct water to the root zone and conserving water.

How to choose agriculture irrigation

Wholesale buyers and suppliers of agriculture irrigation systems consider the following factors to choose the best irrigation systems for their specific needs.

• System Size and Scalability:

  Wholesale buyers consider the size of the irrigation systems and their scalability. They choose big systems that can irrigate large farms and small systems for gardens and greenhouses. The systems should also be scalable to accommodate more plants or larger fields in the future.

• Water Source and Quality:

  When choosing irrigation systems, wholesalers think about the water source and quality. They make sure the systems are compatible with different water sources, like wells or ponds, and can handle various water qualities, including brackish water.

• Climate and Weather Considerations:

  The climate and weather of the area influence the type of irrigation system chosen. For example, drip systems may be better for arid regions to conserve water, while sprinklers may be suitable for areas with frequent rainfall.

• Crop Requirements:

  Wholesale buyers consider the specific water requirements of different crops. They choose irrigation systems that can deliver water efficiently based on crop types, growth stages, and seasonal changes.

• Soil Type and Topography:

  The soil type and topography of the land influence the effectiveness of an irrigation system. For instance, sandy soils may require more frequent watering, while clay soils retain water better. The land's slope also determines whether surface, drip, or sprinkler irrigation is most effective.

• Energy Efficiency:

  Energy-efficient irrigation systems reduce energy costs and promote sustainability. These systems use solar power or wind energy, cutting down on fuel expenses for farmers.

• Technology and Automation:

  Agriculture irrigation technology and automation features enhance efficiency and convenience. Irrigation systems with sensors, timers, and automated controls simplify water management, saving time and labor.

Q&A

Q1: What are the latest trends in agriculture irrigation systems?

A1: The systems are trending towards drip irrigation, smart irrigation, and rainwater harvesting.

Q2: What is the expected lifespan of an agriculture irrigation system?

A2: The longevity of the systems usually ranges between 20 and 50 years.

Q3: How can bulk buyers ensure the quality of agriculture irrigation systems?

A3: To ensure quality, buyers should seek products with relevant certifications and standards.

Q4: What are the implementation costs of agriculture irrigation systems?

A4: The systems' implementation costs vary based on factors such as type, field size, and water source.

Q5: What types of agriculture irrigation systems are there?

A5: The main types of systems include surface, drip, sprinkler, and soaker hose irrigation.