Increasing Water Efficiency Through Drip Irrigation Systems and Mulch Application on the Growth of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis L.) in Dryland

Abstract

The use of water with drip irrigation systems in agriculture is very effective and efficient. Drip irrigation is generally used for high economic value crops, including cauliflower. The purpose of the study was to determine the efficiency of water in agriculture through drip irrigation systems and the application of mulch to the growth of cauliflower. The method used was experimental method by observing the growth of cauliflower plants. The parameters observed were soil physical properties, water discharge, plant water requirements, emitter uniformity, water storage height, drip irrigation efficiency, and plant growth. The results showed an average water discharge of 0.0149 l/sec. The plant water requirement in the middle period was 0.1294 liters/day/plant, and the final period was 0.1120 liters/day/plant. Emitter uniformity obtained an average value of Emission Uniformity (EU) of 82.12%. The best plant growth was found in the 60th observation, with an average plant height of 17.85 cm, an average number of leaves of 21.9 strands, and the best- wet weight of 631.4 gram. Drip irrigation efficiency amounted to 81.26%. The efficiency of drip irrigation in this study can be said to be effective and efficient because the water needs of cauliflower plants are met. Plastic mulch has a good effect on the growth of cauliflower plants in dryland.