The Significance of Fertigation Unit in Irrigation Systems 

Agricultural efficiency has become increasingly important in modern farming. One of the technologies that has revolutionised crop management is fertigation—a system that combines fertilisation and irrigation. 

A key component of this approach is the fertigation unit, which enables farmers to deliver nutrients directly to plant roots along with water. This method not only saves time and resources but also optimises plant growth and yields.

In this article, we will explore the role of the fertigation unit in irrigation systems, its benefits, and its impact on modern agriculture.

Many mistake fertigation to be the same as irrigation and the reason being that the irrigation system often supports the process. Irrigation involves the process of distributing water to crops using different methods.

However, fertigation involves the process of uniform distribution of fertilisers. In fact, fertigation can be referred to as the advanced and efficient method for fertilisation.

A fertigation unit is a system designed to inject water-soluble fertilisers into the irrigation system. The process ensures that crops receive the right amount of nutrients at the right time, leading to more effective nutrient absorption. 

Fertigation is used in a variety of irrigation methods, including drip irrigation, sprinkler systems, and centre pivots.

The key components of a fertigation unit includes:

Mixing Chamber - Where fertilisers are mixed with water before being distributed to plants.

Control Panel - Manages the flow of both water and fertilisers, allowing for precise dosing.

Injection Pump - Injects the fertiliser into the irrigation water at controlled rates.

Filters and Valves - Ensure the system is free of clogs and functions efficiently. 

Improved Nutrient Efficiency

One of the primary advantages of using a fertigation unit is that it enhances nutrient efficiency. Since nutrients are delivered directly to the plant's root zone, less fertiliser is wasted through runoff or evaporation. 

This precise nutrient application allows plants to absorb essential nutrients in an optimised manner. As a result, promoting better growth and reducing the risk of nutrient leaching into the environment.

Water and Resource Conservation

By combining fertilisation and irrigation into one process, farmers can conserve both water and fertilisers. Fertigation units can be programmed to release nutrients only when water is applied, meaning fewer applications are needed. 

This not only conserves water but also reduces fertiliser use, cutting costs and environmental impact.

Increased Crop Yields

Fertigation helps farmers achieve consistent and balanced nutrient supply, which directly leads to increased crop yields. Plants that receive a steady flow of nutrients during critical growth stages tend to be healthier and more resilient.

Reduction in Labor

Automation is a key aspect of fertigation. With the fertigation unit, farmers no longer need to manually spread fertiliser across the field. 

The system delivers both water and nutrients automatically, freeing up time and reducing labour costs.

Flexibility Across Crops and Soil Types

Fertigation can be tailored to suit various crop needs, soil types, and climatic conditions. The fertigation unit allows for adjustable dosing and timing, enabling farmers to meet the specific nutritional requirements of different crops. 

Whether working with fruits, vegetables, or field crops, fertigation provides a flexible solution to nutrient management.

Fertigation units can be integrated into various types of irrigation systems, making them adaptable to many farming environments. Here’s how fertigation enhances some common irrigation methods:

• Drip Irrigation

In drip irrigation, fertigation units inject nutrients into the water that is directly fed to the root zone of plants through small tubes or pipes. This ensures that the water and fertilisers are used efficiently, minimising waste and providing plants with the right amount of nutrients when needed.

• Sprinkler Irrigation

For larger fields, fertigation units can be connected to sprinkler systems. As the sprinklers distribute water over the crops, the fertigation unit simultaneously delivers nutrients. This system can cover a large area while maintaining nutrient uniformity.

• Centre Pivot Irrigation

In centre pivot systems, a fertigation unit is used to inject fertiliser into the water flowing through the central pivot. This ensures that the entire field, no matter the size, receives the correct amount of nutrients, reducing the risk of uneven growth.

We at Dutco Tennant LLC supply a wide variety of irrigation equipment designed to support large-scale projects. Our partnership with Jain Irrigation Systems Ltd. allows us to distribute their high-end fertigation unit that is perfect for drip irrigation.

NutriCare is a fertigation system that has been developed to deliver better yields and greater profits. We are excited to feature this innovation in our showcase for WETEX 2024 where visitors will get the chance to learn in-depth insights from the manufacturers themselves.

Now, before you make your way to our stall, here are some of the features to know about NutriCare.

• Equipped with highly reliable EC and pH electrodes monitors

• A set of Venturi type fertiliser injectors with a 160-1200 lph flow rate each and consisting of a flexible suction pipe per injector 

• Specially designed advanced irrigation and fertigation controller

• Additional Pressure Relief Valve used to maintain precise suction rate of the fertiliser

• Air Release Valve provided to remove air continuously from system special double action 

• Special flow metres (Rota Metres) provided to each Venturis to adjust injection rate

• Can accommodate easily on existing drip system

• Expandable as per requirement, no need to replace entire manifold, just add on venturis for expansion

All-in-all, this fertigation unit is a sophisticated solution that is recommended for precise nutrition management of crops in open field, greenhouse as well as in nurseries.

You can witness the NutriCare system in our showcase for WETEX 2024