Drip Irrigation: Water Conservation Method for Farmers

Drip irrigation has been Farmers are more concerned than ever about the recent drought conditions that are pledging the country and as a result any means of conservation is welcome by many. When a gardener wishes to save water when irrigating their crop, they may decide to make use a a "drip" irrigation system. This type of irrigation is also known as micro-irrigation and trickle irrigation as well. However, in the article this system will be referred to as drip irrigation.

Drip irrigation has been in existence since 1866. This early type of irrigation drip system made use of clay pipes. However, in 1913, there was success in the application of water to the root zone of plants. Today's technology was an invention of Simcha Blass in the country of Israel.

There are generally two types of drip irrigation systems that can be used to water the crops. One type is by dripping water directly onto the soil. This type drips the water slowly onto the top of the surface. The second type of drip irrigation is more complicated and makes use of valves, tubing and pipes that are targeted directly into the root area of the plants. By making sure that water supplies are directed only where they are most needed that farmer is conserving a precious resource that will have a great impact on his financial well being.

In addition to the conservation of water, a drip irrigation system will greatly reduce excess water from settling on the stems, leaves, and fruit of their plants. As a result, the farmer will have less diseased plants that are caused by excess moisture. With less disease the farmer's investment is more secure.

When a farmer makes use of underground drip irrigation, they will be able to retain a greater percentage of chemicals that are used on their plants to ward off pests. This is because water is restricted from coming in contact with the chemicals and washing them off during the irrigating process.