The Main Types of Irrigation Methods in the Modern World

February 18, 2021

Irrigation is highly important in the worlds of landscaping and agriculture. The methods used for irrigation have significantly evolved over the years, and the technology used has come a long way in terms of its efficiency and effectiveness.

Most main types of irrigation in Texas are capable of using much less water, while still producing similar or better results, meaning significantly less water waste and a lower environmental impact. Here are just a few examples of some common modern irrigation methods that are used at residential and agricultural properties alike.

Sprinkler irrigation

Sprinkler irrigation is designed to mimic rainfall, using sprinklers that shoot water above the plants like rain. Such a system will feature a network of pipes and sprinklers that sends water to be sprayed out over the plants.

While not as efficient as other types of systems, it’s still a popular choice for a wide range of environments. However, areas with strong winds generally are advised against sprinkler irrigation, as those winds can increase evaporation before all of the water reaches the plants.

There are some subtypes of sprinkler irrigation systems to be aware of, including:

  • Permanent: In a permanent sprinkler system, pipes, sub-pipes and the main are all installed permanently in the field or lawn, meaning the fixtures cannot be moved once they’ve been set in place. It would require some significant work to move them to a new location.
  • Semi-permanent: Semi-permanent sprinkler irrigation systems feature only a main pipe that is permanently fixed underground, with sub-pipes fixed above the ground. This allows you to change branches and hoses, though it can still be difficult to shift the system to a new place because the mains would need to be dug up.
  • Temporary: Temporary systems have all parts placed on the surface, including the mains, making it easy to move from one place to another. This is beneficial for particularly wide properties, or ones with very firm soil that makes it difficult to install pipes underneath.

Drip irrigation

Drip irrigation is the most popular method of watering, and is more efficient than sprinkler irrigation.

In one type of drip system, water will be delivered close to plant roots in drips. In another type, spray heads are used to spray water at the plants, with those heads located just off the ground. These only spray water close to the roots, ensuring minimal water loss through evaporation.

Drip irrigation uses plastic piping that has holes at intervals, allowing water to drop through those holes, positioned close to plant roots. The water used in drip irrigation must be clean to avoid debris clogging up the drip holes in a way that would significantly reduce the efficiency of those pipes. Once pipes are laid in the field, it can be difficult to know if any of the holes have been blocked, so ensuring the purity of the water should be a top priority.

For more information about some of the most common types of irrigation in use in Texas, contact the team at B&M Pump Irrigation Sales & Service, Inc. today.

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