ISHS Acta Horticulturae 710: International Symposium on Greenhouses, Environmental Controls and In-house Mechanization for Crop Production in the Tropics and Sub-Tropics
SUBSURFACE IRRIGATION SYSTEM FOR VEGETABLE UNDER RAINSHELTER ON CLAY SOILS IN THE LOWLANDS |
| Authors: | C.H. Mohammud, J. Mahmad Nor, J.A. Munir, H. Salbiah, M.K. Illias |
| Keywords: | subsurface irrigation, overhead spray-jet, insect-proof rainshelter, cabbage |
| Abstract:
The subsurface irrigation system was designed, constructed and evaluated against overhead spray-jet irrigation system for the watering of cabbage under insect-proof rainshelter on clay soil at MARDI Seberang Perai, Penang. The subsurface irrigation system consists of irrigation conduits that are installed within the root zone where the crop gets water from upward capillary flow. The effects of irrigation methods on cabbage canopy spread, outer leaf weight, head size, head weight and gross yield were studied. Several trials on cabbage under rainshelter indicated that regular water supply by the system provided better irrigation distribution, which contributed to a better crop growth and yield. Compared to spray-jet, this method of application resulted in 40% higher yield and 50% lower incidence of soft-rot disease, thus reduced the use of fungicide and pesticide. As the soil surface under this system was kept dry, this will eliminate young weed growth, thus the use of herbicide or tillage to control weed. Comparatively, weed growth is 7 times less than with the spray-jet method. Trials also showed that subsurface irrigation has a just slightly higher cost but is simple to operate compared to the spray-jet irrigation system. A subsurface irrigation system can provide a steady supply of irrigation water for crops on clay soil in the most cost-effective way. The subsurface system has the potential to be used for direct injection of soluble fertilizer. It also can be employed for flushing of the root system to remove toxic or acid material. The system can also be used on sand and peat, and is highly recommended for organic farming under rainshelter. | |
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