Irrigation scheduling depends on 6 major factors: crop type and development stage, weather, soil type, disease management, type of irrigation system and total water capacity from source (Gallons per minute). We assist farmers in developing irrigation scheduling programs to assure proper timing and amounts of water delivery and applications. Technology such as infra-red pictures taken from drones, airplane or satellite to ID irrigation problems, fertility issues between many others, could be contracted by the farm and are a great tool.
- The soil moisture deficit is determined at the time of visit. Calculations on when to start irrigation’s and the amount of water applied per irrigation are calculated for one week in advance and detailed in an irrigation scheduling sheet. Other factors such as disease (above and below ground), and weather forecast are taken into consideration for the calculations on timing and amount of water to apply.
- If soil moisture probes are utilized by the farm, software parameters are set for the soil field capacity and desired soil moisture deficits. When to start irrigation’s and the amount of water per irrigation will be displayed. Training on soil moisture probe management and practical utilization.