IRRIGATION & FERTIGATION

UNDERSTANDING YOUR GREENHOUSE WATERING SYSTEM AND IRRIGATION MANAGEMENT

Most growers know that in any commercial operation, an effective greenhouse watering system is one of the keys to a successful harvest. In addition to greater crop development, the right greenhouse irrigation system will help growers with a number of other factors, leading to increased profits.

However, acquiring the best greenhouse watering system isn’t always simple. The needs of every operation are different, so it’s important for growers to understand their options, and work with industry professionals who will help them get the most potential out of their crops.

By connecting with a Greenhouse Specialist from SAINPOLY, growers can design and integrate a greenhouse watering system that is devised specifically for their structure. This will help optimize water supply usage, limit waste, and promote consistent, healthier yields that facilitate long-term success.

With help from experts, growers can better understand how to manage their irrigation, and start making the best choices for their specific needs to create a more efficient, profitable operation.

WHY IS IRRIGATION WATER MANAGEMENT IMPORTANT?

Healthy plant growth: Irrigation is a key process to supply the water needed by plants. Good irrigation management ensures plants get the right amount of water for healthy growth and development. Water is a key component for photosynthesis, nutrient uptake and material transport in plants.

Water use efficiency: Effective management of irrigation water can improve water use efficiency. Waste and overuse of water can be minimized through sound irrigation planning and techniques. This is important for environmental sustainability and cost savings.

Control pests and diseases: Excessive or improper irrigation can lead to increased humidity in the greenhouse, creating an environment conducive to the growth and spread of pests and diseases. The occurrence and spread of pests and diseases can be reduced by properly managing irrigation water, including avoiding over-wetting the soil and plant foliage.

Management of salt accumulation: Irrigation water may contain dissolved salt, and long-term improper use of high-salt water sources will lead to salt accumulation in the soil. High salinity can affect plant growth and development, resulting in poor soil quality. The risk of salt buildup can be reduced by properly managing irrigation water sources, including using low-salinity water sources or performing saline flushes.

Cost savings: Reasonable management of irrigation water sources can reduce production costs. By avoiding over-irrigation and waste, and choosing the right irrigation system and technology, water usage and energy consumption can be saved, thereby reducing operating costs.

CHOOSING A GREENHOUSE WATERING SYSTEM

Choosing the right greenhouse watering system requires consideration of several factors, including greenhouse size, crop needs, water availability, and budget. Here are several common greenhouse watering systems for your reference:

Drip Irrigation System: A drip irrigation system is an efficient watering system that is suitable for a variety of greenhouse crops. It drips water directly to the plant’s root zone through pipes and drip irrigators, reducing water wastage and evaporation. Drip irrigation systems allow precise control of the water supply to meet the needs of the plants and reduce the risk of the spread of pests and diseases.

Sprinkler irrigation system: The sprinkler irrigation system atomizes water to the plants in the greenhouse through sprinklers or spray devices. It is suitable for small or medium-sized greenhouses and can provide even moisture distribution. However, attention needs to be paid to controlling the spraying intensity and time to avoid over-wet or over-dry conditions.

Rain system: The rain system simulates natural rainfall and sprays water on the plants in the form of raindrops through the nozzle. It is suitable for large greenhouses and some selected crops, providing full coverage and moistening. However, the deluge system consumes a relatively large amount of water, and it is necessary to ensure that there is an adequate water supply.

Water storage system: The water storage system is a water-saving watering method that uses the principle of water circulation and circular irrigation in the greenhouse. It reduces dependence on external water sources by collecting and storing rainwater inside the greenhouse or recycling drained water sources. The water storage system can be watered by drip irrigation or sprinkler irrigation, which has the advantage of saving water resources.

Automatic control system: The automatic control system combines sensors and computer technology to monitor parameters such as humidity, soil moisture and crop water demand in the greenhouse, and automatically control the watering system according to the set parameters. Such systems can provide precise watering management, reducing human intervention and water wastage.

HOW CAN WE REDUCE WATER LOSS IN IRRIGATION METHODS?

Use a drip irrigation system: A drip irrigation system is an efficient irrigation method that drips water directly into the root zone of plants, reducing evaporation and loss of water. Drip irrigation systems reduce the risk of water loss compared to conventional flood or sprinkler irrigation.

Mulch the soil surface: A layer of organic mulch or wood chips around the root zone of the plant can help reduce evaporation. This mulch reduces the temperature and rate of evaporation at the soil surface, retains soil moisture, and reduces the risk of water loss.

Check and fix leaks regularly: Regularly check the pipes, sprinklers, and drip emitters in your irrigation system for leaks. Timely repair of leaks can reduce water waste and loss.

Regular watering and reasonable water control: According to the water demand and growth stage of the plants, make a reasonable watering plan. Avoid frequent and excessive watering, which can lead to excess water and water loss. Use a moisture sensor or soil moisture meter to monitor soil moisture and adjust watering levels accordingly.

Avoid watering during times of high wind speed: Avoid watering during periods of high wind speed, as the wind increases evaporation and dispersal of water, leading to increased water loss.

Water source management: rationally manage water sources to ensure effective use. Consider using rainwater harvesting systems or recycling drained water sources to reduce reliance on external water sources.

Optimizing soil water retention capacity: Improving soil texture and structure and increasing organic matter content can increase soil water retention capacity and reduce water loss.

To water your plants with a greenhouse watering system and improve irrigation management, call or  REQUEST A QUOTE today.