In the world of modern agriculture, optimizing water consumption and increasing production efficiency are among the most significant concerns for farmers and gardeners. One of the innovative irrigation systems that has gained much attention in recent years is the bottom or ebb and flow irrigation system. This system is particularly useful in greenhouses and offers numerous benefits to producers. This article explores the advantages and working mechanism of this system.
Table of contents
What is a floor irrigation system?
In the bottom irrigation system, water periodically flows into the cultivation bed and is drained after some time. This process mimics the ebb and flow of tides, hence the name "ebb and flow irrigation system." Water enters through small holes designed at the bottom of the cultivation bed and, once the bed is saturated, it is drained either by gravity or by pumping.
Benefits of a floor irrigation system
Uniform moisture distribution: Water is evenly distributed across the entire cultivation bed, preventing the roots from drying out.
Reduced evaporation: As the soil surface remains dry, water evaporation is minimized.
Reduced soil salinity: Soil salinity is a common issue in arid and semi-arid regions. This system regularly washes the soil, preventing salt accumulation around the roots.
Reduced weed growth: Since the soil surface remains dry, weed growth is significantly reduced.
Precise control of water EC and pH: By accurately managing the inflow and outflow of water, it is possible to maintain the water's EC and pH at optimal levels.
Improved soil aeration: By draining water from the cultivation bed, air penetrates the soil, promoting better root growth.
Efficient use of soluble fertilizers: Soluble fertilizers can be added to the irrigation water, allowing simultaneous watering and fertilization of plants.
How a floor irrigation system works
Filling the cultivation bed: Initially, the cultivation bed is filled with water to saturate all the pores in the soil.
Draining the water: After a specific amount of time, the excess water is drained through the holes at the bottom.
Repeating the process: This cycle is periodically repeated.
The bottom or ebb and flow irrigation system, as one of the innovative irrigation methods, offers significant advantages compared to traditional methods and other irrigation systems. To better understand these benefits, it is helpful to compare this system with other approaches.
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Under what circumstances is it recommended to use a floor irrigation system?
Greenhouses with high-value crops such as vegetables, flowers, and medicinal plants
Regions with warm and dry climates
Soils with heavy texture and poor drainage
Crops sensitive to soil salinity**Houseplants with deep roots**: These plants gradually absorb water due to their deep root systems and are protected from overwatering. Examples include:
- Ficus
- Dracaena
- Yucca
- Sansevieria**Succulent plants and cacti**: These plants require minimal and regular watering, and bottom irrigation helps them slowly absorb the needed moisture.
**Flowering plants**: Many flowering plants, such as African violets, begonias, and azaleas, respond well to bottom irrigation. This method ensures uniform moisture for the roots and enhances the plant's flowering.
**Vegetables**: Many vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers require consistent and uniform watering. Bottom irrigation can help improve growth and increase yield for these plants.
Plants that are not suitable for watering from the bottom:
**Plants with shallow roots**: These plants require light and frequent watering, and bottom irrigation may lead to root rot. Examples include:
- African violets (in certain species)
- Begonia
- Cyclamen**Drought-tolerant plants**: These plants need very little watering, and bottom irrigation may result in root rot.
**Plants sensitive to wet leaves**: Some plants, like African violets, are sensitive to wet leaves, making overhead watering more suitable for them.
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