A commercial strawberry farm located in Queensland, renowned for its premium-quality strawberries and commitment to sustainable farming practices.
Challenge
The farm was grappling with several issues stemming from an outdated irrigation system:
- Inconsistent Moisture Levels: The existing overhead sprinkler system resulted in uneven water distribution, leading to some areas being overwatered while others remained too dry. This inconsistency affected plant health and fruit development.
- Fruit Quality and Yield: Inadequate moisture management contributed to problems like fruit rot and reduced yields, particularly during peak growing seasons when demand was highest.
- High Water Costs: With the farm’s reliance on inefficient irrigation methods, water costs were rising, placing additional strain on profit margins.
Solution
To tackle these challenges, we collaborated closely with the farm to design and implement a state-of-the-art drip irrigation system tailored specifically for strawberry production:
- Drip Irrigation System: Installed a high-efficiency drip irrigation system, utilizing pressure-compensating emitters that delivered precise amounts of water directly to the root zones of each strawberry plant.
- Automated Control Valves: Implemented automated control valves linked to a central irrigation management system. This allowed for precise timing and distribution of water based on the specific needs of different sections of the strawberry fields.
- Filters: Water filters helped maintain clean water supply by removing debris and sediment, protecting irrigation components from clogging.
Outcome
The results of the new irrigation system were significant and transformative for the farm:
- Water Efficiency: The new system achieved a remarkable 40% reduction in water usage.
- Increased Yields: Within the first growing season post-implementation, strawberry yields increased by 30%. The farm saw an average of 1,200 kg of strawberries harvested per acre, a remarkable improvement from previous seasons.
- Enhanced Fruit Quality: The incidence of fruit rot decreased by 50%, leading to a higher percentage of marketable fruit and enhanced flavor profiles.
- Labor Savings: The automation of the irrigation process reduced the time and labor required for manual watering.
- Sustainability and Market Positioning: The farm’s commitment to sustainable practices was highlighted in marketing efforts, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. This strategic positioning increased customer loyalty and market share.
