Growers who switch from overhead sprinklers to drip irrigation are experiencing quicker growth, larger and more uniform blueberries with increased yields. All of these factors equal higher quality fruit which gets premium prices. Blueberry plants have a very fine and shallow root system, so the crop is vulnerable to water stress. On the other hand, blueberries grow best on well-drained soils and suffer from excess water, so drip irrigation is a perfect fit!
Drip irrigation reduces water stress and disease
Blueberries perform best with an irrigation method such as drip irrigation since the water is deposited directly into the root zone – right where the plant needs it and off the leaves and fruit. Driplines deliver water and nutrients to the plant at a constant rate without waste or run-off. Driplines maintain a high level of efficiency so input costs are reduced. This results in higher yields and a uniform, quality crop throughout the entire field.
Drip irrigation reduces costs and water use
Drip irrigation systems require a much lower operating pressure (12 psi vs. 0 psi) than overhead sprinklers which reduces energy costs – sometimes by as much as 50%. Because growers can schedule the irrigation cycles to better match the soil infiltration rate, less water is used. More than any other method of irrigation, drip irrigation applies water with 95% efficiency.
Drip irrigation provides frost mitigation
Drip irrigation produces healthy and strong blueberry plants which can withstand frost in some cases. When growth starts in the spring and new buds are susceptible to frost damage or for general frost protection, overhead sprinkler systems can be used in conjunction with drip irrigation.
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