TYPES OF IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

 

TYPES OF IRRIGATION SYSTEMS What is Irrigation? Irrigation is the replacement or supplementation of rainwater with another source of water. The main idea behind irrigation systems is that your lawns and plants are maintained with the minimum amount of water required. Water is a fragile natural resource and we have to incorporate methods to conserve it and not over-use it. The implementation of an irrigation system will help conserve water, while saving you time, money, preventing weed growth and increasing the growth rate of your lawns, plants, crops and flowers.      TYPES OF IRRIGATION SYSTEMS Ditch Irrigation Ditch Irrigation is a rather traditional method, where ditches are dug out and seedlings are planted in rows. The plantings are watered by placing canals or furrows in between the rows of plants. Siphon tubes are used to move the water from the main ditch to the canals. This system of irrigation was once very popular in the USA, but most have been replaced with modern systems. Terraced Irrigation This is a very labor-intensive method of irrigation where the land is cut into steps and supported by retaining walls. The flat areas are used for planting and the idea is that the water flows down each step, while watering each plot. This allows steep land to be used for planting crops.    Drip Irrigation This is known as the most water efficient method of irrigation. Water drops right near the root zone of a plant in a dripping motion. If the system is installed properly you can steadily reduce the loss of water through evaporation and runoff. Sprinkler System This is an irrigation system based on overhead sprinklers, sprays or guns, installed on permanent risers. You can also have the system buried underground and the sprinklers rise up when water pressure rises, which is a popular irrigation system for use on golf courses and parks. Rotary Systems             This method of irrigation is best suited for larger areas, for the sprinklers can reach distances of up to 100 feet. The word “Rotary” is indicative of the mechanical driven sprinklers moving in a circular motion, hence reaching greater distances. This system waters a larger area with small amounts of water over a longer period of time. Center Pivot Irrigation This is a form of overhead irrigation. Steel or aluminum pipes are joined together, supported by trusses, mounted on wheeled towers. The sprinklers are situated on the length of the tower and they move in a circular motion.