The major problems with untreated irrigation water are directly related to the poor water quality with high pH and the introduction to high bicarbonates. Direct results include scale build up in lines, plugged emitters and low nutrient availability.
Addressing the pH is critical in the uptake and efficiency of fertilizer inputs. Target pH is 6.3 – 6.5. The pH control of irrigation water is addressed by the introduction of a particular acid at a high enough rate to reduce the inbound water from typical pH of 7.0 – 8.0+. The potential for adverse effects, however, show up in the soil with shallow fibrous plant root deterioration, and abated microbial growth. Both of which are essential for sustained tree health and crop production with efficient nutrient inputs and uptake.
The commonly used and widely accepted acid sources are sulfuric acid, infuric acid, or our GAR Bennett 5-0-0+12S. However, we have identified and are engaging an alternative source that is non-synthetic, sustainable, ecological, and safe alternative to sulfuric acid. This injection system would be targeted for growers with minimum plantings of a quarter section (160 acres) or more on a single filter station with AC power source. The benefits of achieving target pH water profile eliminates the alkalinity, solving the bicarbonate build up in the irrigation system but most importantly, the increase in soil biology (structure, glomalin and beneficial bacteria) is achieved.
