What is a micro irrigation system? Types, benefits and challenges

Micro irrigation system is an irrigation system that provides water into the root zone of the crop, in small and controlled quantities, to save water. It includes pipes, filters, valves, drippers, emitters and micro sprinklers. It is a system that is used by farmers to produce more goods for less water. Fruit, vegetables, flowers, orchards, nurseries, sugarcane, cotton and plantation crops benefit from it.

In India, it is important to use micro irrigation due to the high consumption of available freshwater in farming. It is encouraged by the government through the “Per Drop More Crop” initiative to enhance water-use efficiency at the farm level.

How Does a Micro Irrigation System Work?

This is generally a water source selected from a borewell, pond, tank, canal or farm reservoir. This water is pumped into a trunk sewer. Filters take out sand, mud and small particles. Water then flows through sub-main pipes and lateral pipes. Water comes out of drippers or micro sprinklers close to the plant roots.

Fertilizer can also be incorporated with irrigation water. This is known as fertigation. Supplements with the reduction of fertilizer loss and direct feed to crops.

What Are the Types of Micro Irrigation Systems?

• Drip irrigation is to provide water drop by drop in the vicinity of the root zone. Saves water and is suitable for orchard, vegetables, cotton and flowers.
• A sprinkler irrigation system is like light rain. It is best for sandy soil, sloping and leveling ground, and uniform watering of crops.
• A small area of micro sprinkler irrigation surrounds individual plants. It is utilized by farmers for nurseries, orchards, and plantation crops.
• Bubbler irrigation sprays water close to trees and large plants.
• Sub-surface drip irrigation involves locating the drip pipe beneath the soil surface. It cuts down on evaporation and creates a deeper root zone of the soil.

What Are the Benefits of Micro Irrigation Systems?

Deep water loss, runoff and evaporation are reduced up to 40% using micro irrigation. It also reduces pumping time, thus saving electricity or diesel. Regular watering close to the root promotes better crop growth. This system also controls weeds and conserves fertiliser by making it soluble and easy to apply using fertigation, and allows farmers to irrigate more fields with a limited water source.

Challenges of Micro Irrigation Systems

The initial investment is high for small and marginal farmers. Filters, drippers, pipes should all be cleaned periodically. Drippers can become blocked if water passes through contains mud, salts or algae. Training also is needed for farmers in order to handle pressure, spacing, fertigation, and cleaning schedule.

Design and materials quality can shorten the life of the system and decrease the benefits for the crop. Thus, certified machines and trained installers should be looked for by farmers.

Why Trust Tractor Gyan?

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