Tray Irrigation
Tray irrigation is an increasingly popular technique in horticulture and container growing. Inspired by flood irrigation, this solution allows growers to keep their plants hydrated efficiently, without wasting water and avoiding overwatering that can damage the roots.
What is tray irrigation?
This method involves placing pots on non-draining trays filled with water, allowing the plants to absorb water from the base through the pot's drainage holes. It's a form of "passive" watering that ensures each plant receives just the right amount of water without relying on constant manual watering.
Advantages of tray irrigation
- Water Saving: By allowing plants to absorb only what they need, water consumption is reduced, making it ideal for nurseries or indoor growing.
- Protection against puddlesCapillary absorption prevents the risk of waterlogging and root rot, a common problem with overhead irrigation.
- Simple Automation: With a properly sized tray and water level system, you can automate watering multiple pots at once, reducing the need for maintenance.
Tray Irrigation vs Flood Irrigation
Flood irrigation is widely used in large crops such as greenhouses, where a growing surface is temporarily filled with water to saturate the soil. In the case of tray irrigation, the scale is smaller and more localized. Ideal for home gardens and small nurseries, where irrigation efficiency and control are key.
Tips for Implementing Tray Irrigation
- Appropriate Trays: Choose sturdy trays of a suitable size to cover all the pots, with at least 2-3 cm depth to retain sufficient water.
- Check the water level: Make sure that the trays are not left empty for long periods. This could reduce the effectiveness of capillary irrigation.
- Regular Cleaning: Cleaning the trays prevents the accumulation of salts and microorganisms that could affect the health of the plants.
Applications in Murgiplast
Murgiplast offers a range of high-quality irrigation pots and trays that work wonderfully for tray irrigation. Our trays are designed to be durable and easy to use, providing an optimal solution for plants to absorb water in a controlled and efficient way. Whether in nurseries or home gardens, the use of Murgiplast pots and trays makes it easy to implement this irrigation system, allowing growers to opt for more sustainable and water-efficient techniques.
