Irrigation Water Management Considerations for Sandy Soils in Minnesota

Irrigation Water Depth

It is desirable to have the amount of irrigation water applied be somewhat less than the actual soil water deficit to allow some storage reserve for rainfall. During early plant growth the irrigation depth should be 30-50 percent of the soil water deficit. Use this practice also for most crops during the last two to three weeks before maturity. This approach reduces possible leaching from normal rainfall events.

During the crop's critical growth periods, set the irrigation depth at 60-100 percent of the current soil water deficit depending on the normal operation of the irrigation system. Most center pivot systems obtain greatest water efficiency with 0.75-1.50 inch application depths.

This material is based upon work supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Extension Service, under special project number 89-EWQI-1-9180.

Produced by Communication and Educational Technology Services, University of Minnesota Extension.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, this material is available in alternative formats upon request. Please contact your University of Minnesota Extension office or the Extension Store at (800) 876-8636.

University of Minnesota Extension is committed to the policy that all persons shall have equal access to its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, or sexual orientation.