Irrigation is an important part of any cultivation, whether it’s agricultural produce or simple gardening. Water is an essential component of the plant’s survival and proper irrigation ensures that plants have a long and healthy life. Different forms of irrigation systems are used; in various agricultural setups. For lawn or garden setups, the drip irrigation system is more prevalent. Before we proceed any further, let us understand what a drip irrigation system is all about.
What is a drip irrigation system?
Drip irrigation or commonly referred to as trickle irrigation, is a type of micro-irrigation that involves the dripping of water into the soil at; very slow rates from small outlets known as drippers or emitters. Unlike surface irrigation and sprinkler irrigation, drip irrigation system doesn’t involve complete exposure of plants to water. Studies have shown that; using drip irrigation has reduced water consumption and wastage by 47%. Water applications are more frequent in this system of irrigation and plant roots stay moist for; long periods.
Now that we have a general overview of drip irrigation, let us take a look; at the advantages and disadvantages of this system.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a drip irrigation system?
• Water used at an optimum level: Water optimization is maximum in drip irrigation as it irrigates the land at a very; slow rate. Wastage of water is minimum; the soil doesn’t get water-logged. Water logging causes damage to the roots, and the plant ultimately dies.
• Can be employed in all types of landscapes: Extensive leveling of lands, is not required in drip irrigation. The components; of the drip irrigation system can be installed easily on all landscapes allowing even the most rugged landscapes to be; proficiently irrigated.
• Fertilizers are not wasted: Drip irrigation helps in reducing the wastage of fertilizers. The system uses the local application of water and hence, leaching doesn’t occur. Soil nutrients are preserved as soil erosion by water is; minimized.
• Weed growth is controlled: Local application of water and fertilizers ensures that the nutrients are; provided to the target plants and weeds don’t receive them. It is a very effective way to control the growth of weeds.
• The initial cost of installation is high: There are; various components required; for installing the drip irrigation system. The cost of installing the components is high but is effective in the long run.
• Clogging and dysfunction occur: Drip emitters are prone to clogging if they aren’t; cleaned frequently. Clogged emitters cause leakage in pipes due to the generation of excessive force. Water filtration and regular flushing of drip pipes can help avoid this issue.
• High skills required for water management: Drip irrigation requires skillful water management. Optimal water distribution is only possible when, installation of the system is done correctly as per the landscape requirement.
Drip irrigation is functional in places where water scarcity is prevalent; it is the best way to irrigate grass lawns which can control weed growth but help the grass to grow lusciously. But there are other alternatives if you don’t have the capital or space to install this irrigation system. Several garden maintenance companies as, the Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd, provide artificial grass in Singapore and rooftop garden in Singapore that doesn’t require extravagant irrigation facilities. Therefore, if you’re looking for an irrigation-free gardening arrangement, contact Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd today!
