Production of subsurface drip-irrigated okra under different lateral spacings and irrigation frequencies

In this study, an experiment was conducted to investigate the optimum lateral spacing and irrigation frequency for subsurface drip irrigated okra in the semi-arid region of Haryana (India). Two lateral spacings (45 cm and 60 cm) and four irrigation frequencies (daily, after 1, 2 and 3 days) were selected to grow okra in the Kharif season of 2019 and 2020. The effect on soil water dynamics, growth parameters, efficiency and yield were assessed using equal amounts of water under all the treatments on the basis of pan evaporation. The results from the study depict that the overall soil moisture decreased laterally, but increased vertically downward with the increase in the irrigation interval. On the basis of soil water dynamics, plant growth parameters, efficiency and yield of okra, it was concluded that subsurface drip irrigation with daily irrigation at 45 cm lateral spacing gives better performance than all other treatments in sandy loam soil. The present study highlights the significance of proper irrigation frequency and lateral spacing for maximum production of okra. Using these guidelines, the income of okra growers/farmers in the semi-arid region may be increased by choosing the best frequency and lateral spacing of subsurface drip irrigation.