Most irrigation equipment suppliers provide engineering service and cost estimates on request. Growers with irrigation systems have found uses for the systems every growing season. However, irrigation is not a substitute for other cultural practices. The water must be applied in the right amount, at the right time and at the proper rate. There are many management decisions involved in irrigation, including soil texture, soil structure, crop rotation patterns and the amount of water needed by different crops.
Many growers wait too long before applying water.
Unfortunately, research and experience show that damaging water shortages can exist before the plants show any visible evidence of a water shortage. There are several methods for estimating soil moisture. However, a discussion is beyond the scope of this bulletin. Consult Ohio State University Extension or the USDA Soil Conservation Service for more information. Irrigation and Chemical Irrigation can be used to protect vegetable crops, although it is not a common practice in Ohio.