As the world’s population continues to grow, the demand for the supply of food has been constantly increasing. Irrigation has played a significant role in ensuring that crops receive the necessary water needed for their growth and yield. However, the timing of when to irrigate crops is critical in ensuring optimal growth and avoiding losses.
The first step in determining when to irrigate crops is to understand the soil moisture levels. Soil moisture is the amount of water present in the soil, which is crucial for plant growth. Too much or too little water can cause problems for the crop. Therefore, the irrigation schedule should be tailored to maintain soil moisture at the ideal level for the crops being grown.
To determine the ideal soil moisture level, farmers can use soil moisture sensors, which provide real-time readings of the amount of moisture in the soil. These sensors enable farmers to determine when to irrigate their crops, ensuring that the plants receive the correct amount of water needed for their growth.
Another key factor to consider when deciding when to irrigate is weather conditions. High temperatures and low humidity require more frequent irrigation because the water in the soil evaporates faster under these conditions. If the weather forecast indicates high temperatures and low humidity, farmers must increase the frequency of irrigation to ensure that plants receive adequate water.
Furthermore, the type of soil and the crop’s stage of growth should be taken into account when deciding when to irrigate. Sandy soils require more frequent irrigation than clay soils, as they do not retain water for long. Additionally, crops have varying water requirements depending on their stage of growth. For example, during the flowering stage, plants require more water than during the vegetative stage.
In conclusion, deciding when to irrigate crops is a crucial step in ensuring optimal crop growth and yield. Farmers should use soil moisture sensors, consider weather conditions, soil type and crop stage to make informed decisions on when to irrigate their crops. By doing this, the farmers can ensure that the crop receives adequate water, reducing crop loss and producing high-quality yields.