Drip irrigation in tea (Camellia sinensis): Enhancing water use efficiency and sustainable production in Assam and Darjeeling
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Drip irrigation has emerged as an efficient and sustainable water management practice in tea cultivation, particularly under changing climatic conditions and increasing water scarcity. Tea (Camellia sinensis) requires a continuous and balanced moisture supply for optimum shoot growth, yield, and quality. Traditional irrigation methods such as flood, furrow, and overhead sprinkler systems often result in substantial water loss through evaporation, runoff, nutrient leaching, and uneven moisture distribution. In contrast, drip irrigation delivers water directly to the root zone, significantly enhancing water-use efficiency and reducing wastage. Studies indicate that drip systems can achieve irrigation efficiencies of up to 90%, along with considerable savings in water, labour, and energy. In tea-growing regions such as Assam and Darjeeling, where rainfall patterns have become increasingly erratic due to climate variability, drip irrigation serves as an effective supplemental irrigation strategy. It helps maintain uniform soil moisture during dry spells, supports continuous flushing, and improves overall crop productivity. The integration of fertigation through drip systems further enhances nutrient-use efficiency by supplying water-soluble fertilizers directly to the active root zone, reducing fertilizer losses and promoting better plant growth. Despite higher initial installation costs, the long-term economic benefits, including improved yield, reduced input costs, and enhanced sustainability, make drip irrigation a viable investment for tea plantations. Therefore, drip irrigation represents a climate-resilient and resource-efficient approach for sustainable tea production.
Institution: Assam Agricultural University
Language: English
Subfield: Soil Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W7168653073