Micro drip irrigation refers to low-pressure irrigation systems that apply water through small slits or emitters. Water is delivered directly onto the soil near the plant or below the soil surface directly into the plant root zone. Micro irrigation systems for drip irrigation gardens are extremely popular in arid regions as well as urban settings.
The actual application of water in a micro drip irrigation system is through an emitter. The emitter is a metering device made from plastic that delivers a small but precise quantity of water. Depending on how the emitters are placed in the main distribution line, the drip mode is called a line source or a point source system.
The line source type emitters are placed in equally spaced holes or slits made along the main line. This emitter pattern is suited for vegetable crops that require even watering. The point source type emitters are attached at the end of small lateral lines or in a ring. The point source version is suited for widely spaced plants in landscaping, pots or hanging baskets.
Advantages of Micro Drip Irrigation
- Saves Water. Because the water flow is controlled and the delivery is directly to the root zones, loss due to evaporation and runoff and is reduced as compared to other traditional irrigation systems. If plants are moved, the source can be moved as well.
- Saves Energy. Micro drip irrigation uses a smaller power unit than traditional overhead sprinkler irrigation systems.
- Reduces Diseases and Weeds. Fungal diseases are reduced by keeping the water off of leaves and stems. And because the water is distributed directly to the plants, bare areas are kept drier and weed growth is inhibited.
- System can be Automated. It is easy to put the system on a timer and fertilizers and chemicals can be delivered with the water.
No Fuss Pots and Hanging Baskets. Never worry again if your container plants are getting enough water. Drip lines can be run into pots and hanging baskets.
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