Evaluation of Different Irrigation Settings to Maximize Water Productivity

Abstract

This study evaluates the impact of different irrigation systems on maize crop performance, focusing on plant height, stem diameter, grain yield, and water productivity. The results demonstrate that drip irrigation is the most effective system, producing the tallest plants (254.6 cm), the largest stem diameter (17.9 mm), and the highest grain yield (6,728.3 kg/ha). It also achieved the greatest water use efficiency at 15.62 kg/m³, with minimal water wastage. The sprinkler irrigation system also performed well but with slightly lower metrics compared to drip irrigation. Conversely, furrow and flood irrigation systems resulted in shorter plants, smaller stem diameters, and lower yields, with significantly lower water productivity due to higher water usage and wastage. The study underscores the advantages of drip irrigation in enhancing maize growth and yield while conserving water, highlighting its potential as a sustainable agricultural practice.