Hi Osama,

A quick note from FAO portal- https://www.fao.org/3/S8684E/s8684e08.htm

Whereas, Wikihow offers some specific suggestions- https://wikifarmer.com/potato-water-requirements-and-irrigation-systems/

Hope this will help you find your answer. Thanks.

Dear Osama Bahnas,

Sandy soils have unique irrigation requirements due to their high drainage rates and low water-holding capacity. When irrigating potatoes in sandy lands, choosing an irrigation system that can efficiently provide moisture to the root zone while minimizing water wastage is essential. Drip and sprinkler irrigation are commonly used systems for irrigating potatoes in sandy soils. However, the choice between drip and sprinkler irrigation should be based on local conditions, available resources, and budget. Proper design and management are critical for both systems to ensure efficient water use and healthy potato crops in sandy soils.

1. Drip Irrigation: Drip irrigation is highly suitable for sandy soils because it delivers water directly to the root zone, reducing the risk of water wastage due to rapid drainage.

Here are the advantages of using drip irrigation for potatoes in sandy lands: Precise Water Application: Drip systems can deliver water, and often fertilizers, directly to the base of the potato plants. This precise application ensures that moisture is delivered where it is needed most. Water Conservation: Drip irrigation minimizes water loss due to evaporation and runoff, which is crucial in sandy soils where water drains quickly. Reduced Weed Growth: Since water is only applied to the crop root zone, weed growth between rows is minimized. Lower Disease Pressure: Drip irrigation helps keep the foliage dry, reducing the likelihood of foliar diseases. Flexible Scheduling: Drip systems can be easily automated and scheduled, allowing for precise control of irrigation events. However, it's essential to ensure proper filtration to prevent clogging of the emitters due to sand particles. Regular maintenance and monitoring are crucial to keep the system functioning efficiently.

2. Sprinkler Irrigation: Sprinkler irrigation can also be used in sandy lands with some modifications to improve its efficiency.

Here are the benefits of using sprinkler irrigation for potatoes in sandy soils:

Even Coverage: Properly designed and managed sprinkler systems can provide even coverage over a large area, ensuring all potato plants receive sufficient moisture. Frost Protection: In regions where frost is a concern, sprinkler systems can provide frost protection by creating a protective ice layer on the plants. Ease of Installation: Sprinkler systems are relatively easy to install and can be adapted to different field sizes and shapes. Reduced Soil Erosion: Sprinklers can help control soil erosion in sandy soils. However, there are some challenges with sprinkler irrigation in sandy soils: Water Distribution Uniformity: Sandy soils can absorb water quickly, leading to uneven moisture distribution, especially if the sprinkler system is not well-designed. Evaporation and Wind Drift: Sandy soils are more prone to water loss due to evaporation and wind drift, so selecting low-pressure, high-efficiency sprinklers is important. Filtration and Maintenance: Like drip systems, filtration is important to prevent clogging due to sand. Regular maintenance is also necessary to keep the system functioning properly.

Humble regards,

In sandy lands, a suitable irrigation system for potato cultivation is drip irrigation. Drip irrigation delivers water directly to the root zone of the plants, minimizing water loss due to evaporation and optimizing water use efficiency. It is especially beneficial in sandy soils as it helps prevent water runoff and leaching. Drip irrigation also allows for precise control of water application, ensuring that the potato plants receive the right amount of water needed for their growth.