As irrigation plays a vital role in the growth and development of a crop, it’s essential to keep a few things in mind. Water is necessary for the survival of plants, but it’s not just water that a plant needs. An appropriate amount of water at the right time can help plants grow better and enhance crop yield. So, here are some of the critical things to keep in mind before irrigating your crop.
1. Soil moisture level: The soil moisture level is the fundamental factor that you should consider before irrigating your crop. It is essential to know the soil’s water-holding capacity and how much water is already present in the soil. Moisture meters are available in the market that can help you determine the soil’s moisture level. You should avoid over-watering or under-watering the plants in any case, as both can be detrimental to your crop.
2. Time of day for irrigation: The best time for irrigation is early in the morning, preferably before the sunrise, or late in the evening after sunset. Irrigating during the hottest part of the day may lead to water loss due to rapid evaporation and even scorch the plants. Moreover, early morning watering enables the plants to absorb enough water to sustain them through the day.
3. Irrigation Method: Different crops have different irrigation needs, so choosing the right irrigation method is crucial. Drip irrigation is suitable for water conservation, while sprinkler irrigation works best for uniformity in water application. Flood irrigation is ideal for crops like paddy, which require more water.
4. Weather Forecast: It’s essential to keep an eye on the weather before irrigating your crop as rainfall can suffice your crop’s water requirements. If the weather forecast predicts rainfall within the next 24 hours, it’s best to hold off irrigation.
5. Crop Stage: The stage of crop growth is critical while deciding how much water your crop needs. Younger plants require less water than mature ones. Watering maturity-stage plants heavily may increase the risk of plant diseases and lead to reduced yields.
In conclusion, irrigation is a crucial aspect of crop management, and keeping these things in mind can help you improve your crop yield while avoiding waste of resources. Proper water usage is not only beneficial to the plants but also to the environment, so let’s take care of our resources while producing food for the world.