Kinds of Water Irrigation methods

[starcandy]

There are several methods of irrigation for your garden. One such method has received much attention here at the forums, and that is the drip irrigation system.

Here are other methods used in gardening:

1. Flood/furrow irrigation
Possibly the earliest know means of watering crops. This includes the method of collecting water in a bucket & pouring it into the crops. This works for areas where water isn't easily accessible, though it's a lot of hard work.

The downside is that sometimes the water doesn't get absorbed by the soil because of the large quantities used, thus resulting in an overrun and often, a lot of wasted water.

2. Spray Irrigation.
This is similar to when you're watering a lawn using either a hose or a sprinkler system. Here, you need some machinery where long tubes are fixed at one end of the water source and flows through the tube & out by a system of sprays.

3. Drip irrigation. This by far is the preferred method of watering by most farmers as it brings water directly to the plants through plastic pipes with holes in them, and minimizes evaporation.

[sakura]

Thanks for this. Are there any common problems encountered with any of these methods? If so, how are they resolved?

Drip irrigation certainly seems to be popular among many of the users here. I've seen several threads that talked about it one way or the other.

[beezybody]

I've been to a farm with large-scale drip irrigation. Although it is quite convenient, there is a need to replace the hoses regularly especially if they are the plastic type.

Otherwise, it is the best. Might try it on my veggies soon.

[lilypotter]

I am familiar with drip irrigation and follow that method. But spray irrigation also sounds good. Need to try this too.

[brownthumb]

Drip irrigation is the most efficient when it comes to watering gardens and landscapes. Here are some of the benefits:
-it is the best type for windy conditions
-amount of water to be used can be manipulated
-very low evaporative losses
-low flow rate can cover large areas all at once
-low installation and maintenance cost
-more flexible system
-reduces soil moisture fluctuations
-eliminates pollution from runoff
-results in fewer weeds because areas between plants are not irrigated

[brownthumb]

However there are disadvantages of having a drip irrigation system . One cannot see if it is working since drip irrigation is typically covered by a layer of mulch a few inches thick. If not covered, it can also present a tripping hazard for children and pets.
Also, drip irrigation is subject to damages from rodents and other landscaping activities. Without proper system filtration, emitters can become clogged thus shutting off water to certain areas.

[BeWaterWise Rep]

Thanks for the information! Implementing the right irrigation technique is very important for good landscaping. Here is a way to find out how much water your garden or lawn requires every week: Watering Calculator