Ideal Emitter Flow Rates for Different Crops

What’s the Ideal Emitter Flow Rate for Different Crops with Dripline?

One of the most common questions farmers ask when choosing a dripline system is: “What flow rate should I use for my crop?” The answer depends on your soil type, plant spacing, and how much water your crops need to thrive.

“Matching your emitter flow rate to your crop type ensures even watering, stronger roots, and higher yields.”

Understanding Emitter Flow Rates

The emitter flow rate (measured in litres per hour, or L/h) determines how much water each emitter releases. Lower flow rates release water more slowly, which is ideal for light soils or shallow-rooted crops. Higher flow rates deliver more water faster, suited for heavy soils, orchards, or deep-rooted crops.

Ideal Dripline Flow Rates by Crop Type

Below are general guidelines for choosing the right emitter flow rate for different crop groups. Actual requirements can vary depending on your soil, spacing, and irrigation design.

Leafy Greens (Lettuce, Spinach, Kale): 0.8–1.0 L/h
These shallow-rooted crops prefer slow, frequent watering. Lower flow rates prevent runoff and waterlogging.
Root Vegetables (Carrots, Beets, Onions, Garlic): 1.0–1.3 L/h
Moderate flow ensures even soil moisture without oversaturation.
Mixed Vegetables (Tomatoes, Peppers, Cucumbers): 1.3–1.6 L/h
The sweet spot for most field vegetables. Balanced delivery for deeper roots and steady moisture.
Vines and Fruit Crops (Grapes, Strawberries, Melons): 1.6–2.0 L/h
Slightly higher flow supports stronger fruit development and even watering along rows.
Field Crops (Maize, Lucerne, Sugarcane): 2.0–2.4 L/h
Designed for broad coverage and efficient deep watering of larger plants.
Orchards and Trees (Citrus, Avocado, Macadamia): 2.4–3.8 L/h
High-flow dripline or individual button drippers provide deeper saturation for extensive root systems.
Nurseries, Seedlings, or Sandy Soils: 0.8–1.0 L/h
Use low-flow emitters for gentle watering and better moisture retention.

Afriq Water Tip: For mixed-crop vegetable fields or tunnels, we recommend 1.3 L/h flow rate — the most versatile option in the Afriq Drip range for balanced irrigation across soil types.

Flow Rate Options Available from Afriq Drip

Afriq Water manufactures Non-Pressure Compensating (Non-PC) and Pressure Compensating (PC) dripline options in South Africa, with the following flow rate configurations:

12 mm & 16 mm Non-PC: 0.8, 1.0 (until stocks last), 1.3, 1.6, 2.0, 3.8 L/h
16 mm PC: 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.4, 3.8 L/h

All Afriq Drip flow rate options are precision manufactured locally to ensure consistent water delivery, efficient emitter performance, and reliable irrigation results — season after season.

“With Afriq Water, you can select the exact emitter flow rate for your crops — made right here in South Africa.”

Where to Find Dripline Irrigation in South Africa

Our Afriq Drip range is proudly manufactured in South Africa, offering reliable, value-for-money irrigation solutions for farms of all sizes.

You can find our dripline rolls and fittings at most agricultural Co-Ops and irrigation suppliers across the country. Stock availability may vary, as we manufacture to order, so please allow 2–3 weeks lead time.

Prefer to buy online? Visit:
www.irrigationonlinesa.co.za

Or contact our distributor to find your nearest retailer:
www.iunlimited.co.za/contact/