1. Irrigation provides water to the plants for their various activities like transport of food and water, photosynthesis, transpiration, etc.
2. Seeds germinate in moist soil only.
3. Water helps in the absorption of mineral nutrients from soil.
4. Water is essential for the elongation of roots.
5. Water is needed for the growth of plants.
6. Water protects crops from frost as well as dry and hot air currents.

Introduction:

Irrigation is the process of applying water to crops to help them grow. It is necessary because plants need water to survive, and in many places, rainfall is not sufficient to provide the necessary amount of water. Irrigation ensures that crops receive the right amount of water, at the right time, to maximize their growth potential.

Modern methods of irrigation:

Some modern methods of irrigation include surface irrigation, sprinkler irrigation, and drip irrigation.

Drip irrigation:

Drip irrigation is a water-economical method of irrigation because it delivers water directly to the roots of plants, using a network of pipes and emitters. The water is released slowly, drop by drop, which helps to minimize water loss due to evaporation or runoff. This method can be up to 90% more efficient than traditional flood irrigation, which wastes a lot of water.

Advantages of drip irrigation:

There are several advantages to using drip irrigation over other methods:

- Water conservation: As mentioned, drip irrigation is much more efficient than other methods, which means less water is wasted.

- Precision watering: With drip irrigation, water is delivered directly to the roots of plants, which ensures they get the exact amount of water they need. This can help to improve crop yields and quality.

- Reduced weed growth: Because water is only applied to the plants, there is less water available for weeds to grow. This can help to reduce weed growth and the need for herbicides.

- Reduced soil erosion: Drip irrigation delivers water slowly, which means there is less runoff. This can help to reduce soil erosion and nutrient loss.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, irrigation is necessary to help crops grow in areas where rainfall is insufficient. Drip irrigation is a modern method of irrigation that is water-economical and has several advantages over other methods. By delivering water directly to the roots of plants, drip irrigation can help to conserve water, improve crop yields, reduce weed growth, and prevent soil erosion.