Whether you’re updating an old system or planting on a new plot of land, choosing the right irrigation method influences profitability, efficiency, and most importantly, crop yield and health. With so many types of farm irrigation systems to choose from it can feel overwhelming. We’ll break down the most popular here in California.
How Do Farm Irrigation Systems Work?
First, how do farm irrigation systems work? It’s important to note that these differ greatly from the average garden or lawn irrigation system - in terms of scale, complexity, water source, and more.
Basic Components
Irrigation can be a complex topic, so let’s break it down to its nuts and bolts:
Water Source: This can be a natural source such as a river, lake, or aquifer, or an artificial source like a reservoir or well. The availability and quality of the water source influence the optimal type and efficiency of your chosen irrigation system.
Pumping System: These move water from the source to the fields. The most common pumps include centrifugal, submersible, and turbine pumps. The ideal choice depends on the water source and the layout of the farm.
Distribution Network: Pipes, channels, or ditches transport water from the pump to the fields. The network can be made of materials such as PVC, polyethylene, concrete, or metal. These all share the common goal of minimizing water loss during transit.
Control Valves: These regulate the flow of water within the distribution network. They give you control over how much water reaches different parts of the field for even distribution and to prevent over-irrigation.
Emitters or Sprinklers: This is what actually waters the crop. Emitters are used in drip irrigation systems to provide a slow, steady supply of water to the plant roots. Sprinklers, on the other hand, distribute water over a wider area, simulating natural rainfall.
Sensors and Controllers: These monitor soil moisture, weather conditions, and water flow. They’re connected to controllers that adjust the irrigation schedule and amount of water based on real-time data, optimizing efficiency and conserving water.
The Role Irrigation Plays in Crop Outcomes
Here in California, rainfall isn’t enough to water your crop. Your irrigation system fills in the gaps so your crop can thrive, offsetting the effects of drought during dry periods. But the goal isn’t merely to keep crops alive. Proper irrigation improves yield, productivity, and profitability of your crops.
You may also use your irrigation system to transport fertilizer to plant roots at the optimal timing to support healthy growth and development.
From soil management to pest and disease control, the role of your irrigation system cannot be overlooked. So, let’s get into the most common types of farm irrigation systems with tips on choosing the right one.
Common Types of Farm Irrigation Systems
Here’s a detailed look at the 7 main irrigation systems found on California farms.
Flood Irrigation
This is among the oldest and simplest methods of irrigating crops, where water is released from a source and allowed to flow over the field. Common sources include rivers or canals.
The method relies on gravity to distribute water across the land rather than a pump, which can offset costs and allow for simple implementation. It’s optimal for flat plots of land with ample water supply, ideally from a natural source.
However, it can lead to substantial water waste from evaporation and runoff. Learn more about the flood irrigation pros and cons in our blog.
Furrow Irrigation
Furrow irrigation involves creating small, parallel channels (furrows) along the field. Water is directed into these furrows, which then flows down the length of the field, irrigating the crops planted along the sides.
It’s far more efficient than flood irrigation since you have better control over water distribution. But, it requires careful land preparation and regular maintenance to prevent erosion and ensure uniform water flow.
Border Strip Irrigation
Quite similar to furrow irrigation in that it divides the field into long, narrow strips separated by levees. Water is released at the head of each strip and flows down its length, for even crop irrigation.
It provides better water management compared to flood irrigation and is best suited to plots with moderate slopes. It can be adapted to various soil types.
However, precise land leveling and proper design are necessary, which can add complications and costs to the farm irrigation installation process.
Drip Irrigation
This is among the most popular styles in modern agriculture, in which water is precisely applied to the root zone of plants through a network of pipes, valves, and emitters.
As you can imagine it reduces water waste by minimizing evaporation and runoff. It also promotes uniform growth and improves nutrient uptake by providing a consistent moisture level.
We recommend it for areas with limited water supply and for high-value crops. Just be aware that the initial setup cost can be high, and regular maintenance is necessary to prevent clogging of emitters. Learn more about drip irrigation for beginners in our blog.
Sprinkler Irrigation
This approach mimics natural rainfall by distributing water through a system of pipes and sprinklers. It can be used on various terrains and soil types and can be configured in many different ways.
Sprinklers can be stationary or mobile, with center pivot and lateral move systems being common in large-scale farming.
These offer good water control and uniform distribution but can be affected by wind and evaporation losses. They need a reliable water source and regular maintenance since they’re prone to clogs and damage.
Subsurface Drip Irrigation
Also known as SDI, this specific drip irrigation method involves burying drip lines below the soil surface, delivering water directly to the root zone. This minimizes evaporation and runoff, making it highly efficient.
SDI is suitable for a variety of crops and is particularly beneficial in water-scarce regions. It improves water use efficiency and reduces weed growth by keeping the soil surface dry.
The installation and maintenance costs are higher than surface drip irrigation, but the long-term water savings can offset these expenses. You also won’t deal with as many issues with critters chewing lines and causing damage.
Micro-Spray Irrigation
This method offers the best of both worlds in drip and sprinkler systems through small emitters that spray water over a limited area. It’s effective for crops that need gentle, widespread water application, such as vegetables and orchards.
Micro-spray systems are easy to install and can be adjusted to deliver precise amounts of water. They’re flexible and less prone to clogging compared to drip systems, but still require regular maintenance for optimal performance.
Which Irrigation System is Right For Your Farm?
There are many moving pieces in determining the ideal irrigation system style for your crop - including:
Crop type and water requirements
Soil type and structure
Farm size and layout
Climate and weather patterns
Water availability and quality
Cost and budget considerations
Labor and maintenance requirements
Environmental impact and sustainability
Consider the specific needs of your crop, the plot of land and climate you’re growing in, your budget, and these other factors to make the ideal choice.
You can also see what other farms in your region use and then determine if that approach is truly optimal or not. When in doubt, consult a professional irrigation specialist in your region.
Installation and Maintenance of Irrigation Systems
No matter which of these farm irrigation systems you choose, quality components and professional installation are of the utmost importance - as are routine maintenance and swift repairs. Your crop’s health and yield are on the line.
The Importance of Quality Components and Installation
While you’ll pay more upfront for premium farm irrigation products, you get what you pay for in the long run. Invest in durable pipes and efficient pumps to keep your system running smoothly and offset ongoing costs.
Even if you have labor on hand, it’s often worth leaving the installation of these components to a seasoned professional in your region. This will save you from costly upgrades and repairs down the road.
Routine Maintenance and Swift Repairs
Even systems like SDI and micro-spray irrigation still require routine maintenance, such as cleaning filters, emitters, and pipes.
Come up with a routine maintenance schedule to catch these issues early before they have a chance to affect crop health or add costs from wasted water.
You’ll inevitably run into more wide scale issues over time as well, be it a broken pipe from animals chewing or tree root growth. You can learn more about how to find a leak in irrigation system and farm irrigation repair in general here on our website.
Upgrade Your Farm Irrigation System Today!
It’s time to enhance crop health, productivity, and profits by upgrading your farm irrigation system. The right system can offer water savings, increased yields, and reduced labor.
Whether it’s a sprinkler, drip, or surface irrigation system, remember the importance of choosing quality parts and investing in professional installation for optimal performance. You’ll be glad you did come harvest day!