Drip tape for row crops, often referred to as thinwall drip tape, is a specialized type of drip irrigation tubing designed for efficient and precise water delivery in row crop agriculture. It is particularly well-suited for row crops such as vegetables, fruits and field crops grown in rows or beds.

Construction: Drip tape for row crops is typically made from low-density polyethylene (LDPE) material, which is durable, flexible, and resistant to UV degradation and chemicals. The tape is manufactured with a thin wall thickness, usually ranging from 6 to 15 mil (thousandths of an inch), allowing for uniform water distribution along its length.

Emitters: Drip tape features built-in emitters spaced at regular intervals along its length, typically ranging from 6 to 24 inches apart, depending on the crop and spacing requirements. These emitters regulate the flow rate of water, ensuring uniform distribution and optimal moisture levels in the root zone of the plants.

Flow rate and spacing: Drip tape for row crops is available in various flow rates, typically ranging from 0.2 to 1.0 gallons per hour (GPH) per emitter. The spacing between emitters and the flow rate of the tape can be selected based on the crop’s water requirements, soil type, and spacing between rows. For example, crops with high water demands or dense planting may require tapes with closer emitter spacing and higher flow rates, while lower flow rates and wider spacings may be suitable for less water-intensive crops or wider row spacing.

Width and diameter: Drip tape for row crops comes in different widths and diameters to accommodate various row spacings and bed configurations. Common widths range from 5/8 inch to 1 1/2 inches, while diameters typically range from 8 to 20 mil. The choice of tape width and diameter depends on factors such as row spacing, crop type and irrigation requirements.

Installation: Drip tape for row crops is installed either on the soil surface or buried beneath the soil surface, depending on the specific requirements of the crop and soil conditions. It can be laid out in straight rows, curved rows, or raised beds, and secured in place using stakes, anchors, or soil coverings. Proper installation ensures uniform water distribution and efficient irrigation management.

Advantages: Drip tape offers several advantages for row crop irrigation compared to conventional methods such as overhead sprinklers or furrow irrigation. It delivers water directly to the root zone of plants, uses less water than conventional methods and minimizes water loss due to evaporation, runoff, and drift.

The integrated emitters ensure precise water delivery with a slow drip, promoting efficient water uptake and minimizing water stress on plants.  All of this reduces weed growth, soil erosion, and disease pressure, while promoting higher crop yields, water-use efficiency and labor savings.

Maintenance: Drip tape should be replaced periodically to maintain optimal irrigation efficiency and prevent deterioration over time.

Contact Berry Hill Irrigation Specialists to learn more.