Smart irrigation: a scalable, efficient future for farming

 With rising input costs, limited water availability, and increasing demands on productivity, farmers today are under more pressure than ever

Precision irrigation is fast becoming a powerful solution, enabling growers to use water and nutrients far more efficiently by delivering them directly to the plant's root zone—exactly when and where they’re needed.

According to David Nganga, Technical Advisor for Netafim Southern & East Africa in Zambia, precision irrigation is about “delivering water and nutrients directly to the plant's root zone, in the exact amount and at the right time.” This approach reduces waste and maximises plant growth and yield. Among the available methods, drip irrigation is especially efficient, significantly reducing water loss through evaporation, runoff, and deep percolation. This means more of the water actually benefits the plants, boosting productivity.

A common myth is that drip systems are too complex or only suited for high-value crops. In reality, many farmers who’ve switched to drip find it quite straightforward. The key lies in proper setup and regular maintenance, such as cleaning filters and checking driplines for blockages. When maintained well, these systems run reliably and consistently.

One major benefit of drip irrigation is energy efficiency. Less water is needed, and it can be delivered at lower pressure, cutting down on electricity usage. As Henco Grobler of Senekal Boerdery in South Africa puts it, “Drip irrigation enables economically viable large-scale sugarcane production because of the energy savings involved.” These cost savings are often enough to make large-scale operations profitable where traditional irrigation would be too expensive.

Scalability is another strong advantage of precision irrigation. Whether you're managing a home garden or a large commercial farm, the technology can be adapted to your needs. Marco Appel, Agricultural Economist for Netafim Southern & East Africa, stresses the importance of weighing the full picture: “Farmers and project designers must evaluate factors like installation costs, ongoing maintenance, water and electricity expenses, and labour to determine if precision irrigation is a wise investment.”

Understanding your soil plays a vital role in getting the most from precision systems. Different soil types hold water differently, and even basic hands-on checks—like feeling moisture near the root zone—can help optimise watering schedules.

Choosing the right equipment is essential. Factors such as the type of crop, soil condition, field layout, water source, and even how long the system needs to last should influence your decisions. Options like pressure-compensated drippers or anti-root intrusion features can enhance performance and longevity.

The results are hard to ignore: up to 50% water savings, 30% less fertiliser used, and yield increases of between 30–50%. With better crop uniformity, lower labour demands, and reduced power costs, precision irrigation is paving the way for smarter, more sustainable agriculture.

Over time, it fosters a more observant and efficient farming culture—where growers are more aware of their soil, use inputs more wisely, and reduce waste across the board.