Precision Irrigation and Soil Moisture Management for Sustainable Horticultural Production

Dr. Oliver J.

Authors

Dr. Oliver J. School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Australia Author

Keywords:

precision irrigation; soil moisture; horticulture; water-use efficiency; irrigation scheduling; soil management

Abstract

Efficient irrigation is essential for sustaining horticultural production under increasing water scarcity, variable rainfall, and rising competition for freshwater resources. Conventional irrigation practices often apply water according to fixed schedules, which may not reflect crop water requirements or changing soil moisture conditions. Precision irrigation combines soil-moisture monitoring, weather information, crop-based water demand estimates, and controlled water application to improve irrigation decisions. This review examines the principles and practical applications of precision irrigation in horticultural systems, with particular attention to soil moisture management, irrigation scheduling, sensor technologies, and environmental outcomes. It discusses how soil texture, rooting depth, crop growth stage, and irrigation system design influence water availability and plant response. The review also considers barriers to adoption, including equipment costs, technical knowledge, data interpretation, and uneven access to digital infrastructure. Precision irrigation can improve water-use efficiency when monitoring tools are appropriately selected, calibrated, and integrated with sound agronomic management. However, technology alone cannot guarantee sustainable outcomes; irrigation decisions must also account for soil health, salinity risks, nutrient movement, and local production conditions.

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