surface irrigation

In surface irrigation water is distributed over the surface of soil. Sprinkler irrigation is application of water under pressure as simulated rain. Subirrigation is the distribution of water to soil below the surface; it provides moisture to crops by upward capillary action. Trickle irrigation involves the…

Surface irrigation is normally used only where the land has been graded so that uniform slopes exist. Land grading is not necessary for other methods. Each method includes several variations, only the more common of which are considered here.

…generally suited to vegetables are surface irrigation and sprinkler irrigation. A level site is required for surface irrigation, in which the water is conveyed directly over the field in open ditches at a slow, nonerosive velocity. Where water is scarce, pipelines may be used, eliminating losses caused by seepage and…

…rely on simple flooding, or surface irrigation, as the principle means of irrigation. However, flooding often inundates fields with more water than crops require, and significant amounts of water are lost to evaporation or in transportation from its source. Educating farmers about potential water loss from such practices, setting clear…