Pros & Cons Of Subsurface Drip Irrigation

Subsurface irrigation requires less maintenance than surface irrigation, and there is also less chance of surface saturation and effluent runoff.

FREMONT, CA: Subsurface irrigation uses a network of polyethylene pipes just under the ground's surface to utilize disinfected effluent in the root zone of plants, avoiding airborne drift and minimizing runoff.

Subsurface irrigation requires less maintenance than surface irrigation, and there is also less chance of surface saturation and effluent runoff. Reducing the chance of human contact also significantly reduces public health risks.

Applicability

Subsurface drip irrigation systems are extremely efficient and apply accurate amounts of water straight to the root zone, avoiding water loss through evaporation and other negative impacts of surface irrigation. This is particularly fitting for arid, semi-arid, hot, and windy areas with confined water supply. Yet, as the system is relatively complicated and most likely automated, it is more appropriate for medium to large-scale production.

Advantages

• The high degree of control over water utilization with the potential for high consistency of application

• Evaporation is decreased

• The quantity of water can be fine-tuned. This avoids water loss due to runoff or evaporation

• Usual irrigation enables optimum soil moisture content in the root zone

• Great execution in windy and arid locations

• If pre-treated wastewater is utilized for irrigation, the risk of straight contact with crops and laborers is reduced

Disadvantages

• Risk of clogging

• When saline water is employed, salts accumulate at the wetting front

• Emitter can be broken or blocked by root hairs

• Bacterial slimes and algae rising on the interior walls of the laterals and emitters coupled with clay particles in the water can block the emitters

• Suspended organic matter and clay particles can harm the system

• Plenty of repair work is owing to rodents chewing the tubes

• Heavy machinery can damage the laterals