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SPRINKLERS IRRIGATION – MUCH MORE THAN JUST IRRIGATION

SPRINKLERS IRRIGATION – MUCH MORE THAN JUST IRRIGATION

From irrigation and plant propagation, to cooling and frost mitigation, you might be surprised to learn how sprinkler systems can be the precise solution your farm needs.

Sprinklers: The Precise Solution for Your Precise Needs

Sprinkler irrigation is often perceived as a wasteful or non-precise irrigation method. Nothing can be further from the truth in the case of Netafim's micro-sprinklers, midi-sprinklers and sprinkler range. Especially when the system is designed in a smart and efficient way, with relatively low precipitation rates and perfect water distribution that simulates rain. Today's technology has brought exciting new tools for farmers who need perfect water and nutrient distribution or want to use sprinklers for climate control, frost mitigation and plant propagation. Explore this exciting world of opportunities.

Field crops & vegetables

Field crops & vegetables

  • Germination
  • Irrigation of vegetable such as potatoes, carrot, onion, garlic, etc.
Orchards

Orchards

  • Under tree irrigation
  • Frost protection
  • Cooling
  • Humidification of orchards and leaves 
  • Dust cleaning
Protected crops

Protected crops

  • Upside-down irrigation
  • Germination
  • Cooling
  • Humidification
  • Rooting

What to Consider when Choosing Open-Field Sprinkler Irrigation System

Sprinkler Spacing
The distance between sprinklers in an open-field is primarily determined based on the planting pattern and the farm machinery and tools used. Nevertheless, there are other factors to consider. The closer the sprinklers are spaced, the more units and pipes you will require and the higher your system cost will be. On the other hand, wider spacing makes it harder to obtain uniform water distribution. Especially in windy areas.

Sprinkler Flow-Rate and Overall System Precipitation Rate
It is important to choose a solution that can provide the daily crop needs and still avoid run-off that creates uneven water distribution and soil erosion. You should look for a precision irrigation system with a precipitation rate that correlates with the soil’s infiltration capacity. Unlike centre-pivots or rain-guns with high hourly flow rates, precision sprinkler systems have low to medium precipitation rates, so they don’t generate run-off.

Droplet Size and Jet Impact
Aggressive jets can injure young crops, expose seeds and create soil erosion or provoke soil crusting. On the other hand, very fine jets can produce small droplets of water which may shift with the wind or evaporate, affecting uniform distribution of the water. Look for a sprinkler that can reach the required distance and maintain even distribution patterns, but will not damage your crops.

Orchard Sprinkler Irrigation Systems and Frost Protection Solutions

Full Coverage Orchard Irrigation
In many orchards it is necessary to irrigate the entire orchard surface. The sprinklers used in these cases have a low trajectory angle and strong jets, which are designed to hit the trunk, just below the foliage. These systems are robust, easy to maintain and resistant to harsh water conditions.

Localised Orchard Irrigation
These solutions, based on micro-sprinklers, are designed to irrigate the root zone of the trees. This type of irrigation leaves the space between crop rows dry and is known to use the water and nutrients in a very efficient way. It is especially recommended for tree crops with broad and shallow root systems and for areas with sandy soils or high stone content.

Frost Protection 
Frost damage to your orchards can result in yield loss or even death of trees. Netafim offers a frost mitigation solution for orchards based on creating a layer that insulates fruit tree crops with a protective coating of water providing frost mitigation with optimal efficiency.

What to Consider when Choosing an Irrigation System for Protected Crops

Sprinkler Spacing
Where crop value is high and uniformity is key, aim for perfect water distribution within your greenhouse, net house or tunnel. Don’t settle for less than perfect.

Sprinkler Flow-Rate and Overall System Precipitation Rate 
Once spacing has been determined, choose the flow rate that best correlates with the type of soil or substrate used, and matches the required irrigation intervals.

Droplet Size 
Small droplets evaporate and increase humidity or create a cooling effect. Larger droplets have more energy that come in handy if dense foliage is covering the substrate. Choosing the sprinkler according to droplet size needs to consider the environmental effect needed and the crop type.

NEED HELP FINDING THE BEST SOLUTION FOR YOUR FARM?

NEED HELP FINDING THE BEST SOLUTION FOR YOUR FARM?

Get in touch, and we can talk about what your crop needs.