What question did this study set out to answer?

To assess the current state of subsurface drip irrigation and its impact on crop yields and water efficiency.

January 1, 1998

Subsurface Drip Irrigation: A Review

Key Points

To assess the current state of subsurface drip irrigation and its impact on crop yields and water efficiency.
Review of published literature on subsurface drip irrigation practices and outcomes, focusing on yield and water efficiency.
Discussion of irrigation scheduling techniques and management strategies to optimize performance across various crops.
Evaluation of mathematical models simulating water movement in subsurface drip systems.
Subsurface drip irrigation achieved equal or greater crop yields compared to other methods, requiring less water in most cases.
Design and management strategies for subsurface drip systems provide significant advantages over traditional irrigation methods.
Economic aspects of subsurface drip irrigation remain inconclusive but depend on local water availability and costs.

Abstract

A comprehensive review of published information on subsurface drip irrigation was performed to determinethe state of the art on the subject. Subsurface drip irrigation has been a part of drip irrigation development in the USAsince its beginning about 1960, but interest has escalated since the early 1980s. Yield response for over 30 crops indicatedthat crop yield for subsurface drip was greater than or equal to that for other irrigation methods, including surface drip,and required less water in most cases. Lateral depths ranged from 0.02 to 0.70 m and lateral spacings ranged from 0.25to 5.0 m. Several irrigation scheduling techniques, management strategies, crop water requirements, and water useefficiencies were discussed. Injection of nutrients, pesticides, and other chemicals to modify water and soil conditions isan important component of subsurface drip irrigation. Some mathematical models that simulate water movement insubsurface drip systems were included. Uniformity measurements and methods, a limited assessment of root intrusion intoemitters, and estimates of overall system longevity were also discussed.Sufficient information exists to provide general guidance with regard to design, installation, and management ofsubsurface drip irrigation systems. A significant body of information is available to assist in determining relativeadvantages and disadvantages of this technology in comparison with other irrigation types. Subsurface drip provides amore efficient delivery system if water and nutrient applications are managed properly. Waste water application, especiallyfor turf and landscape plants, offers great potential. Profitability and economic aspects have not been determinedconclusively and will depend greatly on local conditions and constraints, especially availability and cost of water.

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