Description of practice
Ridge-furrow systems direct water to furrows, creating more favourable growing conditions. The ridges are sometimes covered with plastic mulch for maximum water harvesting.
| Examples of how to use ridge-furrow systems | Further information (see Note below) |
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DykerUsing a Dyker (an add-on tool for a potato planting machine) holes are dug into the bottom of the furrows between the potato ridges, generating traverse dykes for water storage. |
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Ox-ploughed furrowsOx-ploughed furrows are constructed to harvest water and to prepare seedbeds. The micro-catchment created extends water availability for plant growth and also enhances seed germination. |
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Micro-ridging for water harvestingSmall micro-basins, locally called “cajetes”, are made after ploughing to facilitate the supply of water, taking advantage of scarce rainfall, and increasing production. |
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Ridges for cassavaPlanting bulky root crops such as cassava in ridges facilitates root development and crop harvesting, while also serving the purpose of water harvesting. |
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Cross-tied contour ridgesCross-tied planting ridges are created to catch rainwater for the benefit of young perennial crops. They are suited to areas of water deficit where it is not feasible to provide a soil cover and enhance infiltration and reduce runoff. |
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Briggs Tied RidgerUse of the Briggs Tied Ridger, developed to prevent rain and irrigation water runoff from sloping land, gives a dramatic reduction in surface erosion, fertilizer loss and water requirement. |
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Ridge-furrow system with plastic mulchPlastic mulch covers two ridges (planting zones) while the furrow between them serves as a rainwater harvesting zone. This ridge-furrow system facilitates supplementary irrigation and reduces weeds. |
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Note: Most of the Further information links are to a full description of the example in the WOCAT database. However sometimes the link may be to similar practices or a research paper. Occasionally the link is to a commercial product in which case it should be understood that this does not imply any endorsement of the product by iSQAPER.