Agricultural irrigation systems are a critical element for moving water from reservoirs, lakes, and other sources to the crops that need it for growth.
Though it might be easy to assume that as long as that water is wet there is little else to worry about, that assumption is incorrect.
Water quality matters and for farmers to have their highest yields each season, it should be analyzed if necessary.
Water Analysis Is Important
Depending on the geographic location and the source of irrigation water, there could be elements present that can negatively affect plants, the irrigation system, or both.
In the effort of keeping this expensive equipment working properly and providing the right nutrients to the plants, irrigation system services find that periodic analysis of water supplies can reduce problems due to water makeup, or debris, or contamination in the water source.
Avoid Uneven Watering
A very common problem that affects crops even after irrigation system installation is uneven watering, which is usually caused either by poor system programming or some kind of blockage within the system.
Water containing high amounts of debris like sand, dirt, and vegetation is frequently the culprit, as debris particles can very quickly build up and create obstructions in various places.
Efficient filtering, and filters that are cleaned often, are the main solution when using surface water with a high debris content.
Acidity vs Alkalinity
Another of the more common issues that could need correcting before water is delivered to plants through the irrigation system is acidity versus alkalinity, two extremes that can affect plant growth.
Alkaline or acid waters can be matched with specific crops that prefer certain pH levels but when that is not an option, some kind of correction should be made through purification before the water makes it to the fields.
Consider Mineral Content and Contamination
Additional concerns to look out for include mineral content and contamination.
High mineral content in irrigation water can prevent plants from thriving, either due to over-absorption that causes mineral imbalances or by causing buildup that obstructs the water supply.
Growers should also be testing for water contamination, as parasites, bacteria, and other microbes can easily be transported right to the plants through irrigation, creating a problem after the fact.
Know Your Source Water Quality
Regardless of the crop, the location, or the type of irrigation installation used, irrigation services strongly suggest that farmers stay informed of their source water quality and make corrections as needed. Investing in the right filtration and treatment system will take care of all of these problems.