Journal
Matching Irrigation to Clay Ground
Why clay soils need slower application rates, and how to set laterals so water enters the profile instead of running off.
Clay holds water well once it enters the profile, yet the surface seals quickly under heavy droplets. High-output sprinklers that suit sandy ground often create ponds and wheel ruts on clay.
Favour emitters or spray plates that deliver a finer pattern over a longer set. Walk the line after twenty minutes: if water stands in footprints, reduce pressure or extend the set rather than adding another pass the same day.
Pipe layout matters. Keep laterals on contour where the field allows, and place valves so you can shut a wet corner without stopping the whole block.
Record soil feel at 150 mm and 300 mm after each irrigation for a fortnight. Those notes become the schedule for the rest of the season far better than a fixed calendar.