"Since the 1960s, a very efficient, effective, and economical method of irrigation has been drip irrigation. Used in many types of growing applications, including floral, nursery, cannabis, and indoor production, drip irrigation is most commonly utilized with hanging baskets and potted plants. It is also one of the best watering methods for growing produce crops such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and strawberries."
"A drip irrigation system is easy to install and suitable for growers of any size and capacity. The system is designed and optimized depending on a grower's specific needs. Drip systems used to have a balancing issue where the first plant would get more water than the last plant, but that has long since been rectified with pressure-compensated emitters. This changed the game for many growers and allowed for 95% irrigation uniformity, which resulted in less wasted water and more consistent production. Regardless of the size and scale, drip irrigation is the most uniform method of watering and is typically 90% efficient, which results in less wasted water – creating savings for both growers and the environment."
"Out of all the watering methods, how is drip irrigation so efficient? The answer is simple: Drip irrigation is characterized by the deliberate and gradual application of water directly to the soil, minimizing water loss through evaporation or runoff. By allowing the water to be applied slowly, it absorbs into the soil until the soil is completely saturated, this method ensures a direct channel for the water to reach the plant's root system. Not only does this mean water is saved by applying it directly to the root zone – any nutrients or fertilizers that might have been mixed into the plants' water supply are conserved as well."
"On the topic of fertilizer – with a drip irrigation system, it is possible to correct an over-dosage of fertilizer that has been applied to a crop's water supply. If plants have been watered too heavily with an added fertilizer, irrigate immediately with fresh water to "flush out" the over-dosage and push the fertilizer down and out of the plant's vicinity. This also ensures all plants are receiving a uniform dosage of fertilizer on a regular basis, creating further savings."
"Not only does drip irrigation save money with its precise application – it will also save time and money by reducing crop loss and manual labor. Drip irrigation prevents diseases by minimizing water contact with plant leaves, stems, and fruit – meaning plants stay dry, reducing the risk of harmful fungi from growing. This also ensures that the rows between plants remain dry, which reduces the growth of weeds, resulting in high-quality plants that maximize profits."
"We have covered a bit about drip irrigation and its benefits – but what exactly does it consist of? All drip irrigation systems will possess a water source, pumps, filters, various valves (to control the flow of water), drip tubing (laid on the surface between plants), and pressure-compensating emitters. Each grower's needs are different, and each system from AdeptAg is designed with growers' needs in mind."
"Depending on the amount of a drip irrigation system used and how well it is maintained, a system can last anywhere from seven to twenty years. At AdeptAg, we can help ensure it lasts as long as possible. Our Productivity Specialists and Design Team will help determine a custom drip irrigation system design, our expert Irrigation Technicians will ensure the system is installed correctly, and scheduled preventative maintenance will keep it running smoothly. Increase crop quality and yield, and decrease costs of water and fertilizer – the simple yet effective benefits of a drip irrigation system."
For more information:
AdeptAg
300 Creekside Drive
Oberlin, OH 44074
Tel.: 1-800-354-3750
https://adeptag.com/