Fertigation is becoming an increasingly important part of modern irrigation management. Still, there are a few ideas around it that continue to create confusion. So today, we want to clear up two common myths.
Fertigation always causes corrosion…Wrong
One of the most common concerns is that injecting fertilizers or chemical products through a center pivot will automatically lead to corrosion.
In reality, corrosion depends on several factors, especially the characteristics of the water flowing through the system. This is why solutions such as Permapipe™ should be selected according to water quality and the specific conditions of each project, rather than simply based on whether fertigation is being used.
Fertilizer concentration is another important factor. In most fertigation programs, concentrations are relatively low. However, when larger amounts of fertilizer are applied in a single irrigation event, the concentration of salts in the water can increase, which may also increase the risk of corrosion.
Good system design, proper fertilizer management and correct injection practices make all the difference.
You cannot fertigate every time you irrigate. Also false.
Fertigation does not need to be treated as a completely separate operation from irrigation. In fact, almost any irrigation event can become an opportunity to supply nutrients, as long as the application is adapted to the crop requirements, growth stage and irrigation strategy.
Modern irrigation systems allow growers to apply smaller and more precise amounts of fertilizer when the crop needs them, delivering nutrients through the water directly into the active root zone.
The result is a more flexible approach to crop nutrition, where irrigation and fertilization can work together instead of being managed as two completely separate processes.
Better information, better irrigation decisions
Fertigation is not simply about adding fertilizer to irrigation water. It is about understanding the interaction between water, nutrients, soil and crop demand.
