How are irrigation practices and fertilizer use related? Is there a way to link them together in a way to minimize fertilizer leaching or runoff?
Fertilizer use and irrigation are not directly related in a properly managed landscape. Fertilizer is applied to supply the required nutrients and irrigation is applied to sustain the turgidity of the plants when natural rainfall does not supply enough water. Unfortunately, in many cases irrigation is used in excess, which may result in nutrient leaching (Shaddox & Sartain, 2000). One of the downsides of reclaimed water being used as an irrigation source is that in many cases it is viewed as containing “free” nutrients. The municipality may require the use of a certain quantity of water frequently, which may lead to excessive irrigation and leaching of nutrients. As more municipalities begin charging for reclaimed water, a more conservative approach to its use may develop that will reduce excessive irrigation and leaching of applied nutrients.
