Drip irrigation is a game-changer for small-scale farmers, enabling them to grow crops more efficiently and with higher yields, all while conserving vital resources and reducing operational costs.
Martin Bahnemann, Netafim’s business developer for small-scale farming in South Africa and the SADC region, highlights the benefits of drip irrigation and provides useful tips for farmers looking for an efficient watering system.
Bahnemann says drip irrigation is the most effective method for seasonal vegetable production. “Drip irrigation is the most viable production mechanism for vegetables. It makes a huge difference. It decreases labour.”
He explains that it reduces labour, conserves water, and ensures precise delivery of nutrients directly to plant roots.
Effective and efficient water use
Unlike sprinklers, which require manual adjustment and can damage crops with hoses, he notes that drip irrigation delivers water directly to plant roots with precise control. This method significantly reduces water usage, needing only about half the amount compared to sprinklers, making it a more efficient and effective option for irrigation.
Drip irrigation uses significantly less water than traditional methods like overhead sprinklers. Bahnemann says it prevents crop damage from hoses and eliminates the need for constant movement and adjustment of irrigation equipment.
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This episode also highlights that the success of drip irrigation systems hinges on the filtration of water. Bahnemann advises using appropriate filters to prevent blockages and ensure the longevity of their irrigation systems.
“If you’ve got the right filter, your drip irrigation system will work. Keep the water clean. And if you can do that, you really are not going to look back.”
In this episode, Bahnemann also discusses:
- Management and maintenance;
- Product recommendations; and
- Precision agriculture.
Dive deeper into the episode and gain insights from the award-winning Farmer’s Inside Track, officially recognised as Africa and the world’s best podcast at the 2024 Digital Media Awards presented by WAN-IFRA, the global press organisation.
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