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There are many different types of irrigation methods we can use to water are plants. But which type do you think would be best? Pros/Cons to this system? The irrigation types I know of is Misting, flood, over head, sprinkler, trench, drip, and Sub irrigation. I am thinking for next year, what will be the best to use.

10/26/2005 12:42:20 PM

This past year I used sprinkler irrigation. A tractor hooked up to a pto pump, with 4 in alluminum pipes going to a field pressure gun, shooting the water out over 50 ft. Pro: Moves a lot of water in short amount of time. 2 inches in the rain gauge in less than 2 hours. Gives plant a lot of moisture. Every piece of patch gets water Con: Takes time to set up, and have to take apart after use. Soaks the leaves. Requires a tractor and a pump. Needs to be checked periodically. Won't assist in cooling plant.

I'd like to try something new next year that will be more beneficial, efficient to the plant.

10/26/2005 12:51:01 PM

Picton,ON (j.vincent@xplornet.ca)

Kyle
Most people here don't have access to the big irrigation. I would point out a few things about overhead systems. I used a overhead sprinkle system. I find I don't get even watering over the entire patch. My pivot sprinklers water a 45' circle. This past year I set up 4 stations over my patch (50 X 75) I get 4 nice circles of water but some spots are over watered and others don't get enough. As well the overhead system will wash off contact fungicides. I didn't have any problems this year as I used systemic fungicides and soil applied insecticides.
Some of the hitters have told me they have gone away from trickle systems, but I am considering putting one in next year, so I can control the moisture level better. Also I can mix my fish / seaweed in with the trickle irrigation system and get even distribution.

10/26/2005 4:22:29 PM

Topsfield, Ma.

It's interesting info since I've been using drip last couple seasons, but considering going back to overhead next season. I want to SEE how much water is going down. Poor hose routing concentrated too much water in the planting area and caused root rot...my mistake! Not enough water kept some potentially good seeds from reaching their potential I think? Hey, there's always next year...LOL
Best wishes all, Duff

10/26/2005 8:02:21 PM