Effect of different irrigation intervals on water saving,water productivity and grain yield of maize (Zea mays L.) under the double ridge-furrow planting technique

Surface irrigation is the traditional irrigation method applied in about 80% of the irrigated area in Egypt with greater water losses leading to profile drainage. The double ridge-furrow planting technique (DRFI) uses a practical way to reduce the applied water quantities. Therefore, field experiments were conducted in 2010 and 2011 (maize growth seasons) to study the effects of DRFI with two irrigation intervals – 7 days and 14 days – on maize yield, water saving, water productivity and some economic parameters such as net return and investment ratio compared with the conventional ridged-furrow planting technique (RFI) with irrigation at 14-day intervals. Optimal irrigation interval for maize under DRFI was also determined. Regardless of irrigation intervals, smaller depth of applied water was observed with DRFI treatments compared to RFI treatment. Consequently, with DRFI treatments, more water could be saved compared with RFI treatment in both seasons. Double ridged-furrow planting with irrigation at 7-day intervals proved superior to increase the grain yield and water productivity compared to the 14-day interval and the conventional treatment. It also increased the investment ratio and net return of maize crop. Therefore, double ridge-furrow planting with irrigation at 7-day intervals will practically be the optimal choice under the conditions of the studied area.