Irrigation: Types, Methods, Uses, Pros, and Cons

Irrigation is one of the most important aspects of ensuring a successful garden or agricultural operation. It’s responsible for delivering water and nutrients to plants in the right amounts, at the right times, and in the right places.

Irrigation is one of the essential agricultural technologies that help in optimizing production and enhance crop yields. In this blog, we will discuss different types of irrigation systems and how they are effective in improving crop production. Irrigation systems can be classified into two main categories – surface irrigation, subsurface irrigation, and micro irrigation. We will also discuss the different types of irrigation methods, their advantages and disadvantages, and the different ways in which they are used to water crops.

This blog discusses different irrigation types, methods, uses, the importance of irrigation, the advantages of irrigation, and the pros and cons of each. By reading through this blog, you’ll be able to better understand the intricacies of irrigation and make well-informed decisions when it comes to using it in your garden or agricultural operation. Have fun reading!

Irrigation

Irrigation is the artificial application of water to land or soil for growing plants, crops, or trees.

The main purpose of Irrigation is to supply moisture essential to plants, crops, and tree growth.

Irrigation is an essential necessity during dry weather. Whether you’re living in a hot climate or in an area that experiences droughts, irrigation is a must.

There are three types of irrigation methods:

1. Surface Irrigation

2. Sub Surface Irrigation

3. Micro Irrigation

Each irrigation method has its own pros and cons, and water usage depends on the type of irrigation system and the watering method.

Sprinklers are the most common irrigation method and are typically used to water lawns and gardens. They use high-pressure water to water plants quickly and evenly.

Drip systems use low-pressure water to irrigate plants in a controlled manner. Fertilization uses water to add nutrients to the soil, which in turn helps plants grow faster. irrigation is a Necessity During Dry Weather.

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What is Irrigation?

Irrigation is the process of supplying water to plants using an artificial supply of water.

Irrigation is the artificial application of water to land or soil for growing plants, crops, or trees.

The main purpose of Irrigation is to supply moisture essential to plants, crops, and tree growth.

There are different types of irrigation- drip, sprinkler, and overhead. Drip irrigation is the most common type and uses a series of small pipes that distribute water directly to the roots of the plant.

Sprinkler irrigation delivers water in a spray form and covers a large area quickly.

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Types of Irrigation

Irrigation is an essential part of gardening, and for good reason.

It can help improve yields, water plants evenly, and control pests. But before you get started, it’s important to understand the different types of irrigation and select the right one for your situation.

Types of Irrigation Methods :

1. Surface Irrigation

2. Sub Surface Irrigation 

3. Micro Irrigation

Additionally, irrigation can be used in conjunction with other gardening techniques to achieve even better results. So, whether you’re starting from scratch or just looking to improve your current irrigation setup, don’t miss out on this essential gardening advice!

A. Surface Irrigation

Surface irrigation is a natural, low-cost water delivery method in which water is applied and distributed in the soil field with the help of gravity.

Surface Irrigation is the most widely used irrigation method around the world because it requires very low capital investment compared to sprinkle and drip irrigation.

This method has many advantages, including the ability to deliver water precisely where it is needed most and reducing both water use and environmental impact.

Types of Surface Irrigation

1. Flooding

In Flooding Irrigation irrigation water is allowed from the water channel into the field without much control over the flow of water.

The allowed irrigation water simply covers the entire field and moves unguided.

The field should have border bunds of around 15 cm or more

Flooding requires minimum labor.

2. Check Basin

In Check Basin, the entire field is divided into small plots which are surrounded by small bunds on all four sides.

The water is supplied from the main water channel to the field channel one after another.

Each field channel supplies water to 2 rows of check basins and water is applied to one basin after another.

3. Ring Basin

Basin is made around trees.

Basin is mostly round and rarely square or rectangular in shape.

Basin is simply a round bund made around trees.

Ring Basin increases the water use efficiency with fewer water losses.

The size of the Basin is usually small when the tree is young and the size increases with the age of the trees.

Basin is connected by channel irrigation.

4. Border Strip

We divide our field into numbers of strips by making bunds of around 15 cm in height.

These parallel earth ridges (borders) are formed to guide the flow of water across the field.

The water from the channel is allowed onto each strip at a time.

5. Furrow Method

The furrows are formed across the slope and water from pipes is diverted into the furrows.

The applied water infiltrates from the sides and bottom of the furrows moving downward and wetting the soil.

The applied water is allowed 3 to 6 furrows at a time from pipes or open ditches.

Furrow methods are used for crops grown with ridges and furrows.

6. Surge Method

Surge methods are the intermittent application of water to the field surface under the action of gravity flow which results in on and off modes of constant or variable time spans,

B. Sub Surface Irrigation

As the name, Sub Surface Irrigation suggests that Sub Surface means below the surface.

So Sub SUrface Irrigation is performed through underground pipes or deep trenches at 15 to 30-meter intervals where water continuously wet the root zone of plants or crops through the capillary movement.

This type of irrigation has several advantages, including that it uses a water source that is more sustainable than surface irrigation. However, there are also some disadvantages to sub-surface irrigation, such as its high initial cost.

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C. Micro Irrigation

Micro Irrigation is a method of irrigation that conserves a lot of water because micro irrigation uses a lot of pipes and tubes (underground) which deliver water directly to the soil or close to the plant root zone.

The initial cost of micro irrigation setup is high.

Types of Micro Irrigation

1. Sprinkler Irrigation

Sprinkler irrigation is the most common type of irrigation and it’s used to water lawns, gardens, and plants.

In Sprinkle, Irrigation water is applied as a spray or as rain on the crops.

The rate of Water Delivery is equal to or more than 1000 liters/ Hour.

Sprinkle Irrigation operated at a pressure of more than 2.5 bar.

Advantages of Sprinkle Irrigation

Sprinkle Irrigation saves water up to 25 to 50 %.

It distributes water uniformly in the field.

It saves soil (no need to use soil to make bunds on four sides of land).

There is no risk of erosion or soil runoff.

It is suitable for water and labor scarcity areas and regions.

Disadvantages of Sprinkle Irrigation

Strong winds can decrease its effectiveness and efficiency.

High chances of spread of diseases.

The initial setup cost is high.

Cannot be used in jute and rice.

The sprinkler can get clogged.

2. Drip Irrigation

Drip Irrigation is also called Trickle Irrigation.

Drip irrigation is the most common type of irrigation and it uses very small amounts of water.

It is often used to provide direct droplet irrigation to plants.

In drip irrigation, the water is allowed to drip slowly from a dripper to the roots of plants (either from above ground or underground)

Drip irrigation or trickle irrigation is a type of micro-irrigation system that has the potential to save water and nutrients by allowing water to drip slowly to the roots of plants, either from above the soil surface or buried below the surface.

Drip Irrigation consists of a mainline, sub pipeline, laterals, and emitters.

The water comes to drop by drop from emitters.

Drip Irrigation saves 50 to 72 % water.

Advantages of Drip Irrigation

Best and suitable for areas and regions with an extreme shortage of water.

The salt concentration is less.

It conserves water.

No water loss at all.

The salt concentration is less.

No need to level the soil.

Fewer diseases and weed infestation.

Fertigation and Herbization can be easily applied.

Disadvantages of Drip Irrigation

The initial setup cost is high.

The emitter can get clogged.

Salt can get accumulated near plants and crops.

Inadequate root development.

D. Centre Pivot Irrigation

Centre Pivot Irrigation is also called circle irrigation or water wheel.

As the name suggests in Centre Pivot Irrigation circular-shaped equipment rotates around a pivot and waters with help of sprinklers.

The pivot has a central area that is irrigated.

Centre Pivot System is really beneficial due to its water use efficiency and it increases the crop yield.

This system is effective on large land areas.

E. Manual Irrigation

Manual irrigation is a great way to water plants in a controlled manner.

By irrigating your plants this way, you can better control watering schedules and ensure that the soil gets enough water.

Irrigation with manual methods is slow and labor-intensive, so it’s not recommended for large gardens or estates where space is at a premium.

It’s usually used in areas with low rainfall or when soil moisture is scarce.

Manual irrigation is irrigation that is done with hands or instruments operated with hands.

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Irrigation Methods

Irrigation is an essential part of gardening and landscaping.

There are many irrigation methods to choose from, so it’s important to select the right one for your plants and soil.

There are various Irrigation Methods available :

There are three types of irrigation methods:

1. Surface Irrigation

2. Sub Surface Irrigation

3. Micro Irrigation

Traditional Methods of Irrigation

The traditional irrigation methods include –

1. Flood Irrigation

2. Check Basin Irrigation

3. Border Strip Irrigation

4. Furrow Irrigation

Modern Methods of Irrigation

It can be hard to decide which irrigation system is right for your garden or lawn, but with the help of this article, you’ll be able to make an informed decision.

Modern Methods of Irrigation are :

1. Sprinkle Irrigation

2. Drip Irrigation

3. Sub Surface Irrigation

Sprinkler irrigation, on the other hand, is more common for landscape use as it delivers water evenly throughout a large area.

Drip irrigation is mostly used in greenhouse and nursery crops due to its low water requirements and consistent delivery stream.

Sub Surface irrigation has become increasingly popular in recent years as it’s an environmentally-friendly option that doesn’t rely on surface water resources.

However, it has several drawbacks including high installation costs and possible environmental impacts.

Irrigation Systems

When it comes to irrigation, there are three main types to choose from – drip, sprinkler, and sub-surface irrigation systems.

Each system has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. For example, drip irrigation is the most efficient and is best for areas that are water-sensitive. However, drip irrigation is also the most expensive.

Sprinkler irrigation is less efficient than drip irrigation, but it’s cheaper.

Sub Surface Irrigation System is a compromise between drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation. It’s efficient and affordable.

Understanding the different irrigation systems and their benefits will help you choose the right one for your home and garden.

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Uses of Irrigation

Irrigation is an essential part of gardening, and there are many different ways to use it. Make sure you understand the uses of each irrigation method before getting started.

Uses of Irrigation are :

1. To dilute or wash out salts present in the soil.

2. To provide crop insurance against short-duration drought.

3. To add water to the soil for providing moisture which is essential for the growth and development of plants and crops.

4. To cool the soil atmosphere, helping to create more favorable environmental conditions for plant growth.

5. To soften the tillage pans.

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Importance of Irrigation

Irrigation is one of the most important factors in keeping plants healthy and green.

It’s essential for ensuring a bountiful harvest, preventing pest problems, and improving turf quality.

Irrigation is one of the most important steps in agricultural production, so be sure to take it seriously!

Some of the Importance of Irrigation are:

1. To soften the tillage pans.

2. To provide crop insurance against short-duration drought.

3. To dilute or wash out salts present in the soil.

4. To cool the soil atmosphere, helping to create more favorable environmental conditions for plant growth.

5. To add water to the soil for providing moisture which is essential for the growth and development of plants and crops.

Advantages of Irrigation

Irrigation is one of the essential tools for gardening.

It’s a great way to water plants in areas that are difficult to reach or where there is a water shortage.

Irrigation can be used in both indoor and outdoor gardens, and there are many types of irrigation available to choose from.

This makes it easy to find the irrigation system that is perfect for your needs. Some common irrigation systems used in gardens include manual irrigation, sub-surface irrigation, and micro-irrigation.

Advantages of Irrigation are

1. Some irrigation methods are cheap and easy to install.

2. Irrigation can ensure stable crop production in dry and semi-dry areas.

3. Irrigation can ensure the risk of expensive inputs being wasted by drought.

4. Irrigation plays a key role in increasing food production to feed the constantly growing population.

5. Some irrigation methods require minimum to no maintenance.

6. With the security of crops under irrigation facility, all additional inputs like fertilizers, weedicides, tillage, etc become economically feasible.

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Disadvantages of Irrigation

Irrigation is a great way to water plants and lawns in areas that often experience drought or rainfall scarcity.

Disadvantages of Irrigation are:

1. It can be expensive to install and maintain irrigation systems.

2. It can damage plants and soil.

3. Irrigation leaves wet areas that attract mosquitoes, fungi, and other pests.

4. Irrigation without proper drainage facility results in degradation, waterlogging, and salinization of soil which decreases the crop yield.

5. Irrigation is not ideal for all plants, and it’s important to research the best types of irrigation for your garden or lawn before starting a project.

6. Irrigation results in cold and damper environmental conditions which can result in outbreaks of pests and diseases.

7. Due to seepage and leaching of water containing excessive nitrates and phosphates can result in groundwater pollution.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions Related To Irrigation)

How often should I water my plants?

There is no one answer to this question as water needs vary depending on the type of plant and the environment in which it is grown. However, general guidelines suggest that plants should be watered regularly if the soil feels dry and crumbly, if water droplets form on the leaves, or if the plant seems thirsty.

Is there anything else I should be doing to take care of my plants during drought conditions?

There is not much else that can be done to protect plants during drought conditions. Proper watering and fertilization should still be given as needed.

What are the different types of irrigation systems available?

There are three types of irrigation systems: 1. Surface Irrigation. 2. Sub Surface Irrigation. 3. Micro Irrigation. Each Irrigation System has its own pros and cons. Read more about each type of Irrigation System. Click here.

How can I optimize my irrigation system for the best results?

The irrigation system can be optimized for the best results by considering factors such as rainfall, irrigation zone, soil type, plant type, and irrigation frequency.

Is there anything I need to keep in mind when selecting, installing, and using an irrigation system?

There are a few things to keep in mind when selecting, installing, and using an irrigation system: water pressure, water type, drainage type, dissolved salt, irrigation head, and pipe size, irrigation timer, and sprinkler system design.

What are the types of irrigation systems?

There are three types of irrigation systems: 1. Surface Irrigation. 2. Sub Surface Irrigation. 3. Micro Irrigation. Each Irrigation System has its own pros and cons. Read more about each type of Irrigation System. Click here.

Are there any benefits to using water conserving techniques when irrigating my garden or lawn?

Irrigation using water conserving techniques can reduce water use by up to 50%. These are very effective and efficient but the initial setup costs can be high. Three Types of Water Conserving Irrigation Techniques are: 1. Sprinkle Irrigation. 2. Sub Surface Irrigation. 3. Drip Irrigation.

What are some of the most common uses for irrigation systems?

Irrigation systems are used for agricultural purposes to water crops and plants.

What is irrigation?

Irrigation is the artificial application of water to land or soil for growing plants, crops, or trees. The main purpose of Irrigation is to supply moisture essential to plants, crops, and tree growth.

How do I irrigate my plants?

Irrigation can be done by either rainfall or groundwater. Irrigation with groundwater is more common because it is cheaper and easier to access.

Why should I irrigate my plants?

Irrigation can be beneficial for plants in a number of ways. Proper irrigation can help to ensure plants receive the water they need, especially during dry periods; it can also promote plant growth by supplying them with water when it is needed most, and irrigation can help to control pests and diseases. Most importantly, irrigation can help to protect plants from potentially damaging weather conditions.

Can I use sprinklers to irrigate my plants?

Yes, sprinklers can be used to irrigate plants. However, it is important to ensure that the water flows evenly. Make sure there is no dissolved salt in irrigated water otherwise the sprinklers might get blocked.

What are the 4 types of irrigation?

The four types of irrigation are: 1. Surface Irrigation. 2. Sub Surface Irrigation. 3. Micro Irrigation. 4. Centre Pivot Irrigation. All these different types of irrigation have their own uses, own purpose, own advantages, and disadvantages. So choose them wisely according to your needs. Read more about each type of Irrigation in detail. Click Here.

What are the 3 types of irrigation?

The three types of Irrigation are: 1. Surface Irrigation. 2. Sub Surface Irrigation. 3. Micro Irrigation.

What is irrigation and its types?

Irrigation is the artificial application of water to land or soil for growing plants, crops, or trees. The four types of irrigation are 1. Surface Irrigation. 2. Sub Surface Irrigation. 3. Micro Irrigation. 4. Centre Pivot Irrigation. All these different types of irrigation have its own uses, own purpose, own advantages, and disadvantages. So choose them wisely according to your needs. Read more about each type of Irrigation in detail. Click Here.

What is importance of irrigation?

Irrigation is one of the most important factors in keeping plants healthy and green. It's essential for ensuring a bountiful harvest, preventing pest problems, and improving turf quality. Irrigation provides crop insurance against short-duration drought. Irrigation dilutes or wash out salts present in the soil. Irrigation also ..

Why is irrigation important?

Irrigation is important because it improves crop yields by supplying water to the plants in order to help them grow and develop.

What type of irrigation is best?

Drip irrigation is the best type of irrigation method. It uses water droplets that are too small to be seen but can reach plants deep within their roots. Drip Irrigation saves up to 70 % of water and is a very efficient and affection method of irrigation. But the initial setup cost of drip irrigation is high.

What are two methods of irrigation?

The four types of irrigation are: 1. Surface Irrigation. 2. Sub Surface Irrigation. 3. Micro Irrigation. 4. Centre Pivot Irrigation. All these different types of irrigation have their own uses, own purpose, own advantages, and disadvantages. So choose them wisely according to your needs. Read more about each type of Irrigation in detail. Click Here.

What are irrigation sources?

Irrigation sources include surface water, groundwater, and rainfall.

What is irrigation and its advantages?

Irrigation is the artificial application of water to land or soil for growing plants, crops, or trees. There are many advantages of Irrigation. Irrigation is one of the essential tools for gardening. It's a great way to water plants in areas that are difficult to reach or where there is a water shortage. Irrigation can be used in both indoor and outdoor gardens, and there are many types of irrigation available to choose from. Irrigation can ensure the risk of expensive inputs being wasted by drought. Irrigation plays a key role in increasing food production to feed the constantly growing population.

What are the effects of irrigation?

The effects of irrigation depend on a variety of factors including water supply, irrigation method, irrigation equipment, and crop type. Some common effects of irrigation include increased crop production, decreased water usage, and increased environmental sustainability.

What is the most common form of irrigation?

Surface Irrigation is the most common form of water supply because it is very cheap and does not require many labors to operate.

What is called drip irrigation?

Drip irrigation is a method of watering plants using pipes, sub pipes and droplets that slowly releases water drop by drop that percolates down through the soil to the roots.

What is the best method of irrigation for agriculture?

According to the National Irrigation Association, drip irrigation is the best irrigation method for agriculture. As drip irrigation conserves water up to 70 % and is highly effective and efficient.

What is the use of drip irrigation?

Drip irrigation is a method of watering plants using pipes, sub pipes and droplets that slowly releases water drop by drop that percolates down through the soil to the roots. Drip irrigation conserves water up to 70 % and is highly effective and efficient.

What is irrigation very short answer?

Irrigation is the process of supplying water to plants artificially.

Which is the main source of water?

The main source of water are groundwater, rainfall and recycled water

What are the modern methods of irrigation?

The modern methods of irrigation includes: 1. Sub Surface Irrigation. 2. Sprinkle Irrigation. 3. Drip Irrigation. These modern methods of irrigation are effective, efficient, and conserve water.

What is the advantage and disadvantages of irrigation?

Advantages of Irrigation are: 1. Some irrigation methods are cheap and easy to install. 2. Irrigation can ensure stable crop production in dry and semi-dry areas. 3. Irrigation can ensure the risk of expensive inputs being wasted by drought. Disadvantages of Irrigation are 1. It can be expensive to install and maintain irrigation systems. 2. It can damage plants and soil. 3. Irrigation results in cold and damper environmental conditions which can result in outbreaks of pests and diseases. 4. Due to seepage and leaching of water containing excessive nitrates and phosphates can result in groundwater pollution.