BioDesign N/L 3.5.11 - Drought Irrigation - Growing Maize May 3, 2011

 

Good progress has been made with wick irrigation and we can see how minimal irrigation can be eventually provided to a whole field at little more than the cost of the hosepipe - much less than that of porous pots!

One problem is discovering more about the wicking action of various ropes. We understood that if the right type of material was used the rope would wick but is not always so. The weave also matters and perhaps also the correct cleaning of the rope.

 

If you have already been in contact or are interested in minimal irrigation please contact me so we can do some simple experiments with ropes you find locally.

All you need is a bowl of water and several different ropes/cords/laces.

 

Some people have asked if a cheaper substitute for porous pots can be found -  it may be possible!

If you can obtain some canvas material there is another simple experiment to conduct that I can tell you about.

 

 

With drought hitting many parts of the world it is seriously affecting maize crops.

However maize has now been shown to also be affected by the higher temperatures due to climate change now so apparent in many places so its future is in doubt - even with irrigation.

 

If it is a crop you now rely on please do consider alternatives even if continuing with some maize for the time being!

Reports available if you have limited Internet access.

 

Graham