Advantages of sprinkler and drip irrigation

Sprinkler irrigation

Water is sprayed under pressure through nozzles, like rainfall.

Advantages

• Suitable for undulating and steep land; no land levelling is needed.
• Suitable for sandy and light soils with high infiltration.
• Saves water (efficiency 65-80%); application is uniform and controlled.
• No runoff or deep percolation if designed well; saves the land otherwise used for channels.
• Fertilizer and pesticide can be applied through the water; protects crops from frost and heat.
• Low labour.

Disadvantages

• High initial and energy costs (pump, pressure).
• Wind distorts the spray pattern, causing uneven application.
• Evaporation losses in hot, dry weather.
• Not suitable for heavy clay soils with low infiltration, or for rice.
• Wetting the leaves can spread disease and can scorch them if the water is saline.
• Needs skilled operation and clean water.

Drip (trickle) irrigation

Water is delivered drop by drop near the roots through tubes and emitters.

Advantages

• Highest efficiency (85-95%); uses the least water, so it suits water-scarce areas.
• Wets only the root zone, so there is less weed growth and less evaporation.
• Excellent for orchards, vegetables and sloping land; copes better with saline water.
• Fertigation is easy; high yield and quality; low labour.

Disadvantages

• High initial cost.
• Emitters clog (filters are needed).
• Not suitable for closely spaced field crops.
• Tubes may be damaged by rodents, sunlight and farm operations.
• Salt may collect at the edge of the wetted zone; root spread is limited.
• Needs training and maintenance.