SCIENTIFIC EVALUATION OF WATER-SAVING TECHNOLOGY: GERMAN POROUS HOSES IN SUBSOIL IRRIGATION

Given the increasing water shortage and the high share of irrigated agriculture in the Republic of Uzbekistan’s water consumption, the implementation of water-saving irrigation technologies is particularly relevant. This article presents a scientific assessment of subsurface irrigation using German-made porous polymer hoses as a promising approach to improving the efficiency of irrigation water use.

This article examines the operating principle of porous hoses, their design features, and the technological solutions used in modern subsurface irrigation systems. The potential agronomic, water management, and environmental benefits of this technology are analyzed, including reduced water loss due to evaporation and surface runoff, improved root zone moisture uniformity, increased water use efficiency (WUE), and improved soil water-air balance.

The paper summarizes data from domestic and international research, including the results of field experiments on the impact of various irrigation methods on water consumption and crop yields. It is shown that, with proper design and adherence to operational requirements, subsurface irrigation using porous hoses can reduce irrigation water consumption by approximately 30–70% compared to traditional surface methods while maintaining or increasing crop yields.

Special attention is given to the limitations of the technology related to water quality requirements, filtration, operating pressure stability, soil conditions, and the risk of micropore clogging. The need for demonstration and applied research in Uzbekistan, taking into account the soil salinity regime and regional agro-ecological characteristics, is substantiated.

The results of the study can be used by water management specialists, farmers, and students studying in relevant fields when selecting and justifying water-saving irrigation technologies.