Question

Define irrigation. Why is irrigation of crops essential? Mention the harmful effects of excessive irrigation.

Answer 1

Irrigation is the process of supplying water to the crop plants via canals, wells, reservoirs, tube wells, etc.

Irrigation of crops is essential because water is an important growth factor for the plants. The only natural source of water to the plants is by rain, and if there is no rain, plants will get deprived of water and will not grow efficiently. Also, there are many areas where there is no rain, so in such conditions water has to be applied to the growing crop plants by artificial means. Thus, irrigation forms an essential need for the growth and development of the plants.

Harmful effects of excessive irrigation are listed below:
(i) It promotes soil salinity.
(ii) It decreases the availability of oxygen to the roots of plants by forming a layer of salt on the soil surface.