Personalized attention +34 96 206 62 98
Free shipping to Iberian Peninsula from 30€
9/10 Rating
Discreet shipping
Drip irrigation is an ancient system that was already used in ancient China in the 1st century BC. It is an excellent alternative for providing uniform and constant hydration to crops in an automated way. This method is ideal for saving water and is also convenient because it eliminates the need for manual watering. There are different systems to implement drip irrigation, from high-tech installations for large-scale professional farming to more homemade and affordable versions that are just as effective. Below, we explain all its advantages in detail and show you the best drip irrigation systems available.
What is a drip irrigation system?
A drip irrigation system is a surface system that distributes water through a series of pipes and valves, providing a constant drip directly into the plant’s substrate, where the roots are located—the part that needs it the most. This system prevents evaporation, which helps save water and makes irrigation much more efficient. Ideally, the system should be controllable, allowing for automatic or manual operation, so it can take advantage of weather conditions when used in outdoor cultivation.
Advantages of drip irrigation
Drip irrigation offers numerous and highly beneficial advantages:
Prevents waterlogging
Water is directed straight to the substrate or roots, meaning that it prevents moisture buildup on leaves, stems, and fruits. This helps reduce the risk of plant diseases, including fungal growth.
Higher crop productivity
The hydration level is maintained within the optimal range, which improves both productivity and crop quality. Water supplied in small doses encourages plant growth.
Adaptable to any terrain
This type of system can adapt to any type of terrain, whether flat or sloped, by adjusting the number of emitters, irrigation frequency, or water flow rate.
Fewer weeds
Since moisture is controlled and directed to a specific point, the spaces between plants do not receive water, significantly reducing weed growth.
Saves time, water, and labor
It saves time and, for professional farmers, also reduces labor costs. Additionally, water conservation is a major benefit. Drip irrigation systems are estimated to have a 90% efficiency rate.
More efficient fertilization
Drip irrigation allows fertilizers and additives to be applied directly to the roots, mixed with water and delivered drop by drop throughout the day. This improves fertilization efficiency and nutrient availability.
Disadvantages
While drip irrigation systems are excellent for saving water and promoting plant health and growth, they also have some disadvantages that should be considered.
Installation time
It is a system that must be customized for each crop, which means installation can take a considerable amount of time.
Initial investment
Some initial investment is required, though there are now options and techniques available to suit different budgets.
Maintenance
Drip irrigation requires maintenance. Pipes carry not only water but also nutrient solutions that contain salts, which can accumulate and solidify over time, eventually clogging the valves.
Contamination risk
Plastic pipes tend to degrade over time, especially when exposed to sunlight, which can lead to soil and water contamination with microplastics.
Fixed system
Drip irrigation is a fixed system, meaning machinery work in the area is not possible unless the installation, or parts of it, are removed.
What pressure should be used for drip irrigation?
Water pressure is a crucial factor when setting up a drip irrigation system. If the water pressure is above 5 bar, it is recommended to install a pressure regulator. Conversely, if the pressure is below 2 bar, it may not be enough to supply the irrigation system. To determine a faucet’s water flow rate, fill a bucket with water and time how long it takes to fill. Then, divide the bucket’s water volume by the time taken in seconds. Multiply the result by 3,600 (the number of seconds in an hour) to get the hourly flow rate.
What are the best drip irrigation systems?
There are different drip irrigation systems for soil crops.
Drip irrigation with hoses
This is the most popular, but also the most expensive method. It is based on a tube that extends along the crop and distributes water at low pressure. About three holes or valves are placed over each pot that drip water and some nutrient solution.
Drip irrigation with bottles
This is a very homemade option that anyone can implement. It is ideal for beginner growers who do not yet dare to make a major investment. It works very well in outdoor crops. Water balloons are also very useful and work just like the bottles.
Automatic watering kits
There are different types of irrigation kits on the market that consist of a small tank connected to a series of tubes with nozzles that are placed in the pot. They work with an electric system that is recharged with a solar battery or with a USB cable. They are a good alternative for small crops.
Where can this system be used?
Drip irrigation is ideal for potted plants, as pots are at a higher risk of evaporation due to heat absorption. These systems help save water and improve irrigation efficiency.
It is also highly recommended for vegetable gardens, especially for tropical fruits and citrus trees that require more water.
In conclusion, there is no single “best” drip irrigation system—rather, different systems cater to the needs of various crops and growers. What is clear is that in agriculture, horticulture, and gardening, it is considered the most efficient irrigation method.
