There are various drip irrigation systems that allow us to irrigate our crops in the best possible way.

What are the main differences between those available on the market and which one is best for us to adopt? Let’s find out with Valducci.

Irrigation systems: diversity and characteristics

There are various types of irrigation systems used to meet the water needs of our soil. Its function is to supply the amount of water needed for our crops.

The choice of one irrigation method over another depends on many factors such as water availability, soil type and crop type, etc.

We differentiate between irrigation methods as follows:

• Flooding irrigation: continuous and discontinuous irrigation;
• Surface irrigation: surface run-off and lateral infiltration
• Sprinkler or drip irrigation with irrigation machinery
• Sub-irrigation
• Drip irrigation: punctual, linear and full coverage source

Drip irrigation (micro-irrigation), specifically, allows water to be delivered slowly and directly to the root area of plants and it can be used in tree, vegetable and industrial crops (e.g. tomatoes). This method is the most efficient but not yet the most widely used.

The benefits of having a drip irrigation system

The drip irrigation system is the most efficient system compared to other irrigation methods, saving a great deal of water and possible labour used for watering activities. Water is supplied in a controlled quantity and where it is needed (plant roots).

The advantages can be summarised as follows:

• Water efficiency and maximum crop yields: use of limited water spread efficiently over the whole crop whose growth is optimised by targeted irrigation at the plant roots;
• Ease of installation: no excavation or other work is required for installation which would involve additional labour and therefore costs;
• Cost-effectiveness: by using the available water efficiently and limiting manual work, running costs are significantly reduced;
• Environmental sustainability: the reduction of water consumption together with the possibility of recycling the material after use, leads to an environmentally sustainable choice.

Irrigation and fertilisation: a winning combination

Crop fertilisation allows an improvement in soil fertility; this activity is labour-intensive, time-consuming and therefore implies costs for the farm. To improve efficiency and make this activity more sustainable, the irrigation system can be used. This technique, commonly referred to as fertigation, allows the distribution of water together with (liquid) fertilisers in irrigation systems. This allows a better absorption of nutrients by the plants and at the same time an efficient use of water and therefore a reduction in running costs. In addition, there will be an increase in crop yield and therefore in the efficiency of the whole system.

Drip irrigation with drip tapes for all crops?

As defined above, there are various types of irrigation systems and the choice depends on many factors, one of which is the crop.

The efficient and effective drip irrigation system is widespread in small-scale crops such as tomatoes, courgettes, potatoes and other seasonal crops as well as in arboreal crops. For horticultural or industrial crops, the disposable drip tape is recommended, while for tree cultivations such as vines, the drip line is recommended for long-term operation (more than one season).

Drip irrigation even on non-flat soil?

Obviously. The morphological structure of the terrain in which the system has to be installed affects the structure of the system itself. Once the work area has been defined, a technical analysis is made to set up all its components in the best possible way. The slope of the land where the system is installed affects its operation and therefore its installation. If the soil is sloping, self-compensating drip heads can be used to ensure that all plants in the crop receive equal amounts of water. If the terrain is flat, this will provide optimal conditions and thus maximise the results from the use of a drip system.

How is a drip irrigation system structured?

Irrigation plants differ according to the crop, the cultivation technique, the shape and location of the plots and the amount of water available. A general overview of an irrigation system distinguishes the following main components:

• Water source;
• Pump, for the introduction of water into the system;
• Filters for water impurities;
• Injection and dosing system for fertiliser inside the installation;
• Main pipe which must be proportioned to the flow;
• Irrigation drip tape and valves.

The components will depend on the size and shape of the system. Correct arrangement and installation of the system is necessary to ensure that it is appropriate for the reference crop in order to maximise results and reduce problems arising from incorrect use of the system.

How long will our irrigation system last?

System duration is variable. The various components that are part of the system have different lifetimes and also depend directly on how they are used. Fixed parts such as pumps, vents and various filters have a medium to long life span. Moving/variable parts such as header lines, pipes and valves, on the other hand, have a reduced duration. Depending on the system, you can choose drip tapes that have a seasonal duration or drip lines that are guaranteed for several seasons.

By choosing a Valducci tape, you will get a tested and high quality product, manufactured with high quality material. Your crop will get the best results from your drip irrigation system, reducing the possible problems that may arise.