Drip Irrigation: Getting the Basics Right

Drip irrigation delivers water directly to the root zone, cutting evaporation and weed growth dramatically. Correctly run systems save 40–60% of water compared to flood irrigation and allow fertigation — fertiliser through the same lines.

Ground rules

• •Filter water properly — clogged emitters ruin uniformity
• •Match run time to soil type: sand needs shorter, more frequent runs
• •Flush lines and clean filters regularly
• •Use pressure gauges to confirm the system is balanced

The biggest mistake is watering by the clock instead of by the soil. Check moisture 15–20 cm below the surface before every cycle. Wet soil that still looks dry on top wastes water — and dry root zones due to under-watering silently cost yield all season.