Furrow irrigated raised bed planting
Furrow
irrigated raised bed planting (FIRB) planting involves the planting of crops on
raised beds or ridges and the application of irrigation water to the bottom of
furrows.For most of the soil types (sandy loam to loam soils) and
crops,FIRB of 67cm width (top width of bed-37cm; furrow-30cm) is widely used.On the raised beds,two rows of crops like rice,maize,wheat,or chickpea are
grown.This method of planting facilitates in-situ conservation of rainwater in
furrows,better drainage of excess water and proper aeration in the seedbed and
root zone.FIRB increases water use efficiency and saves up to 25-30% of irrigation
water.It saves 70-80% of time,labour,cost,diesel,and energy;produces
higher yields (4-5%) and energy efficiency (20-25%) compared to conventional
sowing.