Micro-Irrigation System
The micro-irrigation system supplies water according to crop water requirements through a piping network and specially installed irrigation devices on branch pipelines, such as drippers, micro sprayers, seepage pipes, and micro-irrigation belts. Water and nutrients are delivered evenly and accurately in small flow rates directly to the crop root zone or the soil surface layer. This enables localized irrigation and helps maintain optimal moisture, nutrient, and air conditions around plant roots and foliage.
Main Features
The system uses a low irrigation volume with longer irrigation duration and shorter intervals. It allows precise control of water application, delivering water and nutrients directly to plant roots and leaves to meet crop growth requirements.
Types of Micro-Irrigation Systems in Greenhouses
At present, micro-irrigation systems used in greenhouses mainly fall into two categories: drip irrigation and micro-spray systems.
Drip Irrigation System
Drip irrigation uses water pressure to slowly moisten the soil through drippers. Water supply pipes and drippers are usually placed on the ground surface, with each dripper typically delivering a flow rate of 1–12 L/h. After drip irrigation, only the crop root zone is moistened, while other soil areas remain relatively dry. This helps reduce surface evaporation and lowers the risk of diseases caused by excessive greenhouse air humidity.
Suspended Micro-Spray and Micro-Mist System
Suspended micro-spray and micro-mist systems are installed in the upper space of the greenhouse. They include rotary, folding, and misting types. Water supply pipelines are generally fixed at a height of 2.5–3.5 meters above the ground, with micro-spray nozzles of selected diameters installed at regular intervals. To prevent dripping water from affecting crop growth, anti-drip micro-spray devices are used. These systems are mainly applied for irrigating leafy vegetables, fruit trees, and seedbeds inside greenhouses.
