Saturday, February 1, 2014

By Jayne Rutledge


A drip irrigation system is preferred over the other systems because it is economical on water without affecting production. It targets the root area of the crops by releasing the water in small amounts. The water is dripped on the surface or directly into the soil below. Narrow tubes are used to deliver water directly to the base of the plant.

Some quotas refer to the method as micro, localized or trickle irrigation. The sizes of pipes and tubes vary depending the distance from the source of water. Other features common at the area include valves and emitters. The same network may be used to deliver pesticides and fertilizers where the amounts are strictly controlled. This will prevent wastage that would be occasioned by flooding or sprinkling methods.

The use of emitters came as a solution to blocking of holes by tiny particles present in water. The amount of water released depends on velocity settings. Unlike traditional systems, the modern assembly provides longer and larger passages. Water is supplied from a pressurized source or pump. Natural gravity can supply water if the area is sufficiently slanted.

Systems used to irrigate expansive areas require filtration to avoid blocking and clogging the pipes. The market has provided disc filters, media filters, screen filters and hydro cyclone for that purpose. Fertilizers and chemicals are also administered using the same network. There is need to install valves that prevent back flow which would contaminate water sources with chemicals used on the farm.

Each section requires a pressure regulator depending on water needs for each crop. It allows you to regulate the amount of water available to the plants. Electronic, hydraulic or hand operated safety valves are installed. An effective design is done by professionals who determine the sizes of pipes used at different sections. Poly-tubes are used to drop water at the root of the plant.

The pipes are connected using special accessories and poly fittings that are recommended by professionals in setting up of such systems. The devices that emit water include drippers or emitters of different sizes, inline driptubes or micro spray head. The choice of such device requires a professional analysis of the target plants, the soil, water requirement and the environment around the area. The operation of valves and pumps may be automatic or by hand.

The need for filters to prevent clogging is determined by the type of water available for agriculture. Some systems do not have filters because the water is free of any particles. Filters can be placed at the last line because fine particles easily settle around the area or are accidentally inserted at the intermediate lines.

Drip irrigation system is mandatory if a farmer uses recycled municipal water. There are regulations restricting water that is below certain standards from being sprinkled or flooded. The method is also used to deliver pesticides and other chemicals to the base of crops being irrigated. Research has show that this method is very economical with water and other farming chemicals. The amount of chemicals or fertilizer to be used is given by extension officers.




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