Surface Irrigation - Furrow Irrigation

Furrow Irrigation


This method of irrigation is used in the irrigation of row crops with furrows developed between the crop rows in the planting and cultivating processes. The size and slope of the furrow depends upon the crop grown, equipment used and spacing between crop rows. Water infiltrates into the soil and spread laterally to irrigate the areas between the furrows. The length of time, the water to flow in the furrows depends on the amount of water required to replenish to rootzone and the infiltration rate of the soil and rate of lateral spread of water in the soil. Both large and small irrigation stream can be used by adjusting the number areas where surface drainage is necessary, the furrows can be used to dispose of the runoff from rainfall rapidly.
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Suitability

                Furrow irrigation can be used to irrigate all crops planted in rows, including orchard and vegetables. This method is suitable for irrigating maize, sorghum, sugarcane, groundnut, potato and other vegetables. This method is well suited to crops which are injured by ponded surface water. It is suited to all soils except sandy due to high infiltration rate.
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Advantages: in this method, water contacts only one half to one fifth of the land surface, reducing crusting and evaporation losses.  Earlier cultivation is possible. More area is irrigated. Water saving upto 30% in case of furrow ridge irrigation and upto 50% in case of furrow bed irrigation as compare to border or basin irrigation.

Disadvantages: it require land grading so as water can travel the entire length of furrow without ponding. It requires slope by removing low and high spots. It is not suited to sandy soils due to unstability of ridges against water.
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