The Bio Brief

All living beings need water to survive. Water is essential for the growth and development of plants. Plants absorb water through their roots, and along with water, minerals and fertilisers are also absorbed. Nearly 90% of a plant’s body is made up of water.

Importance of Water for Plants

• Seeds cannot germinate without water
• Helps in transport of nutrients to all parts of the plant
• Maintains moisture of the soil
• Protects crops from hot winds and frost
• Essential for healthy growth and good yield

Water supply

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Seed germination

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Nutrient transport

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Healthy plant growth

The regular supply of water to crops at fixed intervals is called irrigation.

Factors Affecting Irrigation

The time and frequency of irrigation depend on:

• Type of crop
• Type of soil
• Season

In summer, irrigation is needed more frequently due to high evaporation of water from soil and plant leaves.

Sources of Irrigation

Water used for irrigation comes from different sources:

Sources of Irrigation

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Wells, Tubewells

Ponds, Lakes

Rivers, Dams

Canals

Traditional Methods of Irrigation

These methods use human or animal power. They are cheap but less efficient.

Traditional Irrigation Methods

1. Moat (Pulley system)
2. Chain pump
3. Dhekli
4. Rahat (Lever system)

Water source

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Human / Animal power

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Water lifted to fields

Pumps are also used to lift water and are run using:

• Diesel
• Biogas
• Electricity
• Solar energy

Modern Methods of Irrigation

Modern methods help in saving water and increasing efficiency.

1. Sprinkler System

• Useful on uneven land
• Suitable where water is limited
• Pipes with rotating nozzles are fixed at intervals
• Water is sprayed like rain

Main pipe

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Rotating nozzles

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Water sprinkled on crops

Uses:

• Lawns
• Coffee plantations
• Many field crops

2. Drip Irrigation System

• Water falls drop by drop near the roots
• Water is not wasted
• Best for:
  • Fruit plants
  • Gardens
  • Trees

Water pipe

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Drops near roots

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Direct absorption

 Very useful in dry areas where water is scarce.

Comparison of Irrigation Methods

Method	Water Use	Efficiency
Traditional	High wastage	Low
Sprinkler	Less wastage	Good
Drip	No wastage	Best

Quick Summary

Need water

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Proper irrigation

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Healthy crops

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Better yield