What is Sprinkler Irrigation System? Know how does it works and its benefits

06 May, 2023

Agriculture is vital for meeting the growing demand for food across the globe. The success of farming depends largely on water availability. In many regions of India, rainfall is insufficient to sustain crops. Traditional methods of irrigation are no longer enough.

This is where sprinkler irrigation comes in - a modern, efficient, and effective method of delivering water to crops.

Sprinkler irrigation system can provide the required amount of water to crops, at the right time and in the right amount. It results in better yields and water conservation. Let's explore more about sprinkler irrigation, its benefits for agriculture. And how it can help feed our growing population sustainably.

What is Sprinkle Irrigation?

Let’s start with the basics and understand what we mean by sprinkle irrigation for agriculture.

Sprinkler irrigation is a method of applying water to crops through a network of pipes and sprinklers. This type of irrigation system mimics natural rainfall by spraying water over the crops in a controlled manner. It ensures that the right amount of water is delivered at the right time to maximize crop growth and yield.

In a typical sprinkler irrigation system, water is pumped from a water source, such as a well or a reservoir. At regular intervals along the pipes, sprinkler heads are placed, which can be adjusted to control the water flow and pattern. When the system is turned on, the sprinklers distribute water over the crop in a manner that simulates rainfall.

The common components of a sprinkler irrigation system are as quoted below:

• The pumping station of the header assembly 

• Bypass valve 

• Filtration system 

• Fertilizer tank 

• Control values 

• Pressure gauge 

• QRC Pump connector 

• PVC pipes 

• Service Saddle 

• Sprinkle nozzle​

​How Can You Use a Sprinkler Irrigation System? 

The Sprinkler irrigation system has many use cases in agriculture. From watering crops to conserving water for the future, it can do tons of things. Here are some of the key uses of sprinkler irrigation systems. 

• Watering crops: It provides a reliable method of watering crops, which is important for their growth and development.

• Conserving water: Sprinkler irrigation is more efficient than other methods of irrigation. It delivers water directly to the plants and avoids wastage due to runoff or evaporation.​

• Cooling crops: Sprinkler irrigation can also be used to cool crops during hot weather, which can help to prevent heat stress and improve crop yield.

• Fertilizer application: Sprinkler irrigation systems can also be used to apply fertilizers and other chemicals to crops. It helps to improve plant health and yield.​​​

What are the Benefits of Sprinkler Irrigation?

When used in the correct form, a feature-rich sprinkler irrigation method can offer many benefits over traditional irrigation methods. This is why it is becoming increasingly popular among farmers. Here are some of the key advantages of sprinkler irrigation:

1. Efficient Water Use: Sprinkler systems are designed to deliver water directly to the plants, minimizing runoff and evaporation. This makes them a much more efficient use of water compared to other irrigation methods, such as flood irrigation.

2. Precision Irrigation: Sprinkler systems allow for precise control over the amount of water that is delivered to each plant. This is especially important for crops that need different amounts of water at different growth stages.

3. Improved Crop Growth and Yield: By providing the right amount of water at the right time, sprinkler systems can improve crop growth and yield. This is especially important in areas where water is scarce or where rainfall is unpredictable.

4. Flexible Irrigation Scheduling: Sprinkler systems allow farmers to irrigate their crops at the most opportune times. This can help to reduce water usage and energy costs while still ensuring that the plants receive the water they need to grow.

5. Reduced Soil Erosion and Nutrient Loss: Sprinkler systems can help to reduce soil erosion and nutrient loss by delivering water to the plants in a controlled manner. This results in healthier crops and improved yields.

6. Reduced Labor Costs: Sprinkler systems can help to reduce labor costs by automating the irrigation process. This frees up farmers to focus on other important tasks, such as planting, harvesting, and pest control.

How to Buy Sprinkler Irrigation System in India?  

For those who want to have an effective irrigation system for their crops, a sprinkler irrigation system is a great choice, provided you have the right kind of system by your side. Here are some tips to help you buy a good sprinkler irrigation system:

• Consider the type of crops you will be irrigating as different crops have different water requirements. Pick a sprinkler system that can meet those requirements. 

• You need to know the source of your water, such as a well or a municipal water supply. It ensures that the sprinkler system you choose can deliver the required amount of water.

• The size and shape of your field will determine the type of sprinkler system you need. If you have a large field, you may need a system that can cover a larger area and has a higher flow rate.

• You need to choose the right sprinkler heads for your field based on factors such as water pressure, flow rate, and coverage area.

In a country like India where agriculture depends upon the quality of the irrigation method used, a sprinkler irrigation technique can help farmers to do effective and quality irrigation that will flourish their crops. Make a wise choice and pick the right kind of sprinkler irrigation system in India.