Microirrigation: An Approach to Efficient Irrigation

Abstract Microirrigation, earlier known as Drip or Trickle irrigation is a highly efficient method of water application. It developed and expanded globally at a fast rate in the last two decades in more than 35 countries with maximum coverage in the United States. This is most appropriately applicable to widely spaced crops such as fruits, vegetables and field crops. Its different variations consist of surface trickle, bubbler, microsprinkler, spray, mechanical move, pulse, subsurface drip, all of which are covered under a single term microirrigation. In the present article, its advantages, components, system design, fertigation, automation and other aspects has been described. Also the extent of application to different crops, and in different countries, limitations, scope, research trends and strategies of promotion has been discussed.