Irrigation Pulse Design

What pulse irrigation is

Pulse irrigation applies water in short, controlled events rather than long continuous applications.

The aim is to: - Re-wet the root zone - Restore water availability - Preserve oxygen supply

Why pulse design matters

Long irrigation events: - Fill pore space with water - Collapse air-filled porosity - Restrict oxygen diffusion

Short pulses allow: - Drainage between events - Oxygen replenishment - Better root function

Key design principles

• Match pulse volume to container or soil capacity
• Allow sufficient drain-down between pulses
• Increase frequency rather than duration
• Adjust pulse design with temperature

Temperature interaction

• Higher temperatures → shorter, more frequent pulses
• Cooler conditions → longer intervals acceptable

Agronomic note

Pulse irrigation manages oxygen, not just water.