Using Subsurface Drip Irrigation for Alfalfa

A trial on the suitability of using subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) for alfalfa (Medicago sativa L) was conducted on a producer’s field. The soil is loam. The treatments included drip tape spacing of 60, 40, and 30 inches; placed at 18 and 12 inches depth. A nearby center pivot sprinkler irrigated plot was seeded to alfalfa and was used for comparison. Seedling emergence and yield was adversely affected at 60 inch spacing. The depth of placement of drip tapes (18 and 12 inches) showed no effect on yield. The site served for education and allowed comparison between SDI tape spacing and center pivot system. Key Terms: Irrigation; water conservation; subsurface drip irrigation; alfalfa