Subsurface drip Irrigation Systems (SDI)

Subsurface drip Irrigation Systems (SDI) are a suitable agronomic option for all type of crops: fruit trees (almond, vineyard, olive, pistachio, peach tree, etc.) and field crops (corn, vetch, barley, alfalfa, etc.).

The SDI is an irrigation technique that allows the localized application of both water and nutrients under the soil surface. This practice allows an even more efficiently usage of the water, energy and fertilizers, becoming the best alternative from an economic, agronomic and ecologic point of view.

Advantages

1. Water directly applied on the root system
• Better irrigation water application efficiency.
• Inputs savings: higher fertilizer usage.
• Reduction in energy consumption.
• Compatible with reclaimed water usage.
• Crop water stress reduction.

2. Reduced / Absence of wet area on surface
• Less presence and growth of weeds.
• Decrease the risk of pests and diseases
• Improvement on the physical properties of the soil.

3. Lack of irrigation system components on the surface
• Reduction of the damages made by animals and vandalism avoided.
• Perfectly integrated in the landscape.
• No exposure to direct solar radiation.
• Reduce and ease the maintenance labours.
• Reduction of maintenance costs.
• Reduce and ease the farming operations.

Subsurface drip irrigation systems require an accurate design, installation, operational and maintenance criteria to take advantage of these type of systems. AZUD has a wide experience in this technique.