Precision irrigation uses soil sensors, satellite data, and smart algorithms to deliver water exactly when and where plants need it. This harmony maximizes water use efficiency, boosts yields, and minimizes waste.
1. Principles of precision irrigation
- Moisture & salinity maps from in-ground sensors and remote sensing.
- Variable flow emitters that adjust discharge per field zone.
- Management software processing weather, soil, and crop-stage data.
2. Agronomic benefits
- Yield increases of 10–25 % through optimized water supply.
- Reduced water stress at critical phases (flowering, fruit set).
- Field uniformity: consistent growth and more homogeneous harvests.
3. Savings & sustainability
- Water use cut by up to 50 % compared to conventional methods.
- Energy savings of 30 % via demand-driven pumping.
- Environmental protection: less nutrient leaching and runoff.
4. Key technologies
- Capacitive & tensiometer sensors placed strategically in the soil.
- Multispectral drone imaging for up-to-date stress mapping.
- IoT controllers linked to cloud platforms with automated/manual rules.
- Optional blockchain for water-use traceability and sustainability certification.
5. Deployment roadmap
- Data survey: soil, climate, and crop assessment to design the system.
- Sensor placement: position probes in representative moisture zones.
- Emitter calibration: set flow rates per micro-zone based on crop ETc.
- Software integration: configure irrigation rules and remote dashboards.
- Monitoring & tweaking: review ETc and moisture data, adjust scheduling.
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions
How to calibrate a soil moisture sensor?
Take reference readings in fully saturated and oven-dry soil samples, and map the 0–100 % range in the software.
What drone flight frequency is recommended?
Weekly during critical growth phases, bi-weekly in vegetative stages to refresh NDVI maps.
Can precision irrigation run on solar power?
Yes—use PV-driven modular pumps and low-power IoT valve controllers.
What’s the minimum investment?
Small plots require approximately USD 2 000–3 000 for sensors, variable emitters, and basic software.
What training is required?
Enroll in agricultural IoT and spatial-data courses at ULA, LUZ, or local cooperatives.