Microjet irrigation is the top method of freeze protection for citrus trees, but its effectiveness is only realized if growers perform proper maintenance of the sprinklers before a cold event occurs.
Mary Sutton, University of Georgia (UGA) assistant professor and citrus Extension specialist, emphasized that fact during the Georgia-Florida Irrigation Expo on June 10.
Sutton said growers should treat their sprinkler systems the same way that homeowners treat their water lines leading up to and during freeze events. Leave the water running until temperatures improve, she advised.
“Especially if your irrigation lines are above ground, once it starts getting cold enough, that water can freeze up,” said Sutton. “And if your lines are frozen, you might end up with damage. And if they’re frozen, you definitely can’t run your irrigation. Make sure things are running properly before it gets too close to a chance for a freeze to occur.”
Proper and periodic maintenance to irrigation systems is an important management tactic because sprinklers are subject to nature and can be vulnerable to wildlife. Growers should check their systems before the threat of low temperatures and high winds. Look for holes that can be caused by animals.
“Make sure all the emitters are running how they should be. Unclog them and check for proper coverage,” Sutton advised. “The lines are exposed to the elements, so they’re subject to all kinds of damage from wildlife and the environment.”
Sutton told growers that many different types of wildlife can be found in groves, and some critters may disrupt irrigation systems by chewing lines or clogging emitters. In Florida, snails frequently clog irrigation emitters, creating an ongoing problem for citrus growers. Performing regular checks and patching lines is an essential part of irrigation maintenance, she concluded.
By Clint Thompson