Subsurface irrigation delivers water directly to plant roots via buried porous tubes or drip lines, minimizing evaporation and weed growth. In drought-prone Venezuela, this method boosts water efficiency and shields crops.
1. Subsurface irrigation basics
- Buried emitters: porous hoses or subsurface drip tape release water underground.
- Optimal depth: 10–30 cm below surface, tailored to soil and crop root depth.
- Low pressure: 0.5–1.5 bar ensures uniform water distribution without soil compaction.
2. Drought-area advantages
- Water savings: up to 70 % less than surface irrigation, eliminating evaporation and runoff.
- Weed suppression: dry surface deters weed germination.
- Cleaner crops: foliage stays dry, reducing fungal issues and improving fruit quality.
- Uniform performance: steady, even watering enhances plant growth consistency.
3. Components & system design
- Mainline: 25–32 mm PE pipe.
- Subsurface lines: porous tubing or drip emitters spaced 20–50 cm apart.
- Fine mesh filters (100–150 µm) and pressure regulator to prevent clogs.
- Controller/timer: schedules irrigation based on soil moisture or preset timing.
4. Suitable crops
- Root vegetables (carrots, beets).
- Young fruit trees (citrus, guava).
- Vineyards and olive groves, benefiting from uniform subsurface watering.
5. Implementation steps
- Soil analysis: determine texture and water-holding to set emitter type & depth.
- Network layout: map lines with simple CAD or field sketch, considering slopes.
- Installation: trenching by machine or shovel to place tubing/goters.
- Pressure test: check for leaks and uniform flow before backfilling.
- Maintenance: clean filters monthly; inspect tubing each season.
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I space subsurface emitters?
20–30 cm spacing for vegetables; 30–50 cm for orchards. - Will porous hoses clog?
With proper filtration (< 150 µm) and routine cleaning, clogging is minimal. - Is it viable in sandy soils?
Yes—underground delivery prevents runoff and maintains moisture in the root zone. - Can I power pumps with solar panels?
Absolutely—low-pressure photovoltaic pumps pair well with subsurface systems. - What is the best burial depth?
15 cm for shallow-rooted crops; up to 30 cm for vines and trees.