Pitcher Irrigation: Some Theoretical and Practical Aspects

Abstract

After a brief introduction about pitcher irrigation, the concepts of ‘suction emitter’ and ‘oozer’ are defined and the discharge equation for the latter is determined. On the basis of this formula and fixing a ‘desired water potential’, the ‘emptying time’ of porous containers is obtained, which is a parameter necessary for the design and management of these irrigation systems. All these formulas are analysed and discussed, and criteria for the design of oozers, emitters and systems of irrigation by suction are established. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.