Rainfall is totally unpredictable. We cannot solely depend on rainfall for crop production, in such cases, we need an artificial supply of water.
In irrigation, we have control over water supply by pipes, sprinklers, etc. A proper irrigation system helps to maximize crop production.
A well-developed irrigation system has many benefits:
it helps to increase the growth of agriculture crop yield
cultivation of multiple crops under the same piece of land saves water
improves overall growth
necessary moisture of the soil is maintained for germination of seed
it helps in the absorption of mineral nutrients by plants
Crop production includes agricultural practices and systems that concern about the crop yield, profit, ecological and environmental consequences to identify best practices for local and international growers to produce more with less.
Irrigation facilities to grow more crops and pasture, flexibility in operations and systems, have insurance against seasonal drought and variability, maximize benefits of fertilizer applications.
The selection of the irrigation system depends on soil composition, land formation, root structure, growth stage, plant species.
A good irrigation system should promote growth while minimizing water loss, soil erosion, salt imbalance, leaf burn.
Types of irrigation
Drip irrigation: It is the most yielding way to apply water and nutrients for growing crops.
It saves water, labor, reduces groundwater pollution, eliminates run-off of water, and gives higher quality yields.
Sprinkler irrigation: It applies water under high pressure with a pump. It is a controlled way of water distribution just like rainfall.
It reduces soil compaction, helps to increase crop production, suitable in all types of soil except heavy clay.
Furrow irrigation: It is a system consisting of small, parallel channels used to guide water to irrigate crops.
It is a cost-effective solution and guarantees higher crop yields.
These are some common methods of irrigation preferred by farmers according to the land type and design.
How does irrigation increase your crop production?
On average it is observed that irrigated crop yields are higher than those from unirrigated land but there can be unfavorable outcomes of irrigation if it is not managed well.
Over irrigation ruins crop production. Unnecessary water leads to waterlogging, increase in salt concentration, hinder germination, and uprooting. Thus proper irrigation system and schedule should be considered.
The areas where evaporation (E) and transpiration (T) (water loss from crop) exceeds precipitation or rainfall irrigation is suited.
Factors that affect ET include:
• Soil moisture
• Crop type
• Stage of crop growth
• Climate, temperature, humidity, and wind speed
• Solar exposure
• Soil cover
Agriculture is greatly affected due to irregular, uncertain, or insufficient rain. The proper irrigation system can conserve steady agriculture.
Conclusion:
The irrigation system satisfies the water requirements of crops throughout the growing season.
With the help of irrigation, we can plan multiple cropping which will result in higher crop production. Irrigation assures the nutritional requirements of a crop.
Irrigation plays a crucial role during drought and famine. It also contributes to the economy and stabilizes the output and yield of crops.
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