Surface irrigation
Videos
Surface irrigation is where water is applied and distributed over the soil surface by gravity. It is by far the most common form of irrigation throughout the world and has been practiced in many areas virtually unchanged for thousands of years.
Furrow irrigation of sugar cane in Australia, 2006
Level basin flood irrigation on wheat
Residential flood irrigation in the Southwest, United States of America.
Furrow irrigation system using siphon tubes
Irrigation in viticulture
Videos
Irrigation in viticulture is the process of applying extra water in the cultivation of grapevines. It is considered both controversial and essential to wine production. In the physiology of the grapevine, the amount of available water affects photosynthesis and hence growth, as well as the development of grape berries. While climate and humidity play important roles, a typical grape vine needs 25-35 inches of water a year, occurring during the spring and summer months of the growing season, to avoid stress. A vine that does not receive the necessary amount of water will have its growth altered in a number of ways; some effects of water stress are considered desirable by wine grape growers.
A vineyard with a drip irrigation system running along the bottom of the vines
Advances in irrigation have allowed viticulture to flourish in very dry climates, such as parts of Australia, that might not otherwise be able to sustain grapevines.
Water is vital to many of the physiological processes of the grape vine, including photosynthesis.
Sandy soils typically have poor water retention but good drainage. However, if its mixed with significant amounts of clay, such as this soil sample, its water retaining properties will increase while still draining well.