by Jordan McDowell

Commercial farming can be a profitable venture. However, sustainable irrigation presents a big challenge for many growers. Efficient crop irrigation maximizes water use and reduces losses due to run-off, evaporation, and leaching. 

If you are a commercial farmer and want to improve the irrigation for your plants, here are some expert insights to get started:

Get the Right Irrigation Supplies

The type of supplies you need will depend on your crop(s). Consider the frequency in which the watering must take place as well as the size of the farm. The appropriate supplies will ensure that the plants will get enough water without wasting too much time and energy. For instance, drip variation micro-sprinklers are ideal for those who want to water a small number of plants regularly, as they provide even distribution and do not run the risk of overwatering. They are best used for crops that require irrigation once or twice a week. For large farms with many different types of plants that need watering every day, you will need to use sprinkler systems with large-capacity tanks. A complete irrigation system should include:

• Pump stations;

• Drip systems;

• Filtration;

• Linear and center pivot;

• Solid-set sprinklers; and more.

Maximize Water Efficiency and Minimize Waste

Another way to improve your irrigation is to minimize water waste and maximize water efficiency. For instance, you can get a rain sensor for your irrigation system from a reputable agriculture supply company to prevent run-off in the event it starts raining. You can also reduce run-off through proper grading layout or mulching. The simplest way to minimize run-off is to ensure that the soil around your plants has good drainage, so that water does not pool around the plant. If you have particularly heavy soil, adding in sand or perlite can significantly reduce run-off by improving how quickly water drains. Mulching also helps conserve water by reducing run-off and slowing the evaporation rate. Maximize water efficiency by watering your plants in the morning or evening when the air is cooler and wind speeds are lower.

Look for Leaks in Pipes and Hoses

Taking a look at your hoses and pipes for leaks is a simple process that could save you from having to replace them altogether. Inspect the fittings of each hose by turning off the water at its source and checking the valves along its route. This will ensure there are no leaks. Leaks can cause waste of water and money, so it is crucial to pinpoint them. Any leaks should be fixed immediately to prevent further damage or water loss. This simple step can have huge implications for the sustainability of your farm.

Examine Drains or Lines for Clogs

Clogs are one of the most common reasons for a lack of water for your plants. Checking that there are no clogged drain lines or filters in the system can prevent drainage issues. Commercial irrigation systems often have a filter on the water source to protect the system from debris in the water. This will ensure that your plants are receiving enough water to function properly and stay healthy.

A clogged line should be professionally cleaned to help resolve any drainage problems for your plants. This protects the system from any damage caused by too much pressure in lines if you try to clean them yourself. Regular inspections are also recommended before the start of each season to ensure that the system is functioning correctly, and your plants will be getting the water they need.

Conserve Water Responsibly

Irrigation can help your farm thrive and produce more food or flowers for you to sell. However, if the sprinklers are not set up correctly, they will waste a lot of water from run-off downspouts and evaporation from heat on hot days. Depending on the type of landscape you have and what you are planting, there are a variety of ways you can conserve water responsibly. Remember, that you can consult landscaping professionals to better understand the best time to plant your specific crops.

For instance, planting during the cooler months of the year will require less irrigation, as your plants are not producing fruit or vegetables. You can take advantage of this time to set up a drip system for your crops that only release the amount of water they need at any time. Drip irrigation systems are great for conserving water, by sending water directly to the roots of your crops, where they need it most. This can help you achieve optimal results at a lower cost and with less effort. Drip irrigation is an ideal method to use when planting on-demand superfoods, such as kale, spinach, and other leafy greens.

Overall, there is a lot you can do to improve the irrigation for your plants. The most important thing is to avoid overwatering. Always check the soil before you water to make sure it isn’t already wet. If the soil is wet, wait until it begins to dry out before watering. You should also pay attention to whether your lines are clogged up by organic matter like mulch or compost, which can prevent proper irrigation.

Finally, make sure to water your plants at appropriate times of the day. Watering plants early in the morning is an excellent way to reduce evaporation. Watering plants in the morning reduces the likelihood that wet leaves or stems will be burned by exposure to sunlight. If you need help with improving irrigation for your plants, do not hesitate to consult experts to help you achieve better grown, healthier plants.

Images courtesy of Pixababy.