Irrigation Top Calculator 2025
Calculate water requirements for your farm. Get precise irrigation needs for drip, sprinkler, and furrow systems with pump sizing and cost estimates.
Trusted by farmers, contractors, and businesses across Kenya. Verified calculations based on official 2025 data from KNBS, KALRO, and industry experts.
Irrigation Water Calculator
Crop Water Needs (mm/day)
* Peak season requirements. Reduce by 20-30% during cooler months.
Irrigation System Comparison
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Complete Guide to Farm Irrigation in Kenya
Daily Water Needs (Liters per Acre)
| Crop | Drip (90%) | Sprinkler (75%) |
|---|---|---|
| Tomatoes | 27,000 L | 32,400 L |
| Onions | 20,200 L | 24,300 L |
| Maize | 24,700 L | 29,700 L |
| Cabbage | 22,500 L | 27,000 L |
| Kale | 18,000 L | 21,600 L |
Irrigation System Costs (per Acre)
| System | Installation | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Drip (Basic) | KES 200K-300K | 5-7 years |
| Drip (Premium) | KES 400K-600K | 7-10 years |
| Sprinkler | KES 150K-300K | 8-12 years |
| Center Pivot | KES 2M-4M | 15-20 years |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much water does one acre need for irrigation in Kenya?
Water requirements per acre vary by crop and season. Tomatoes need approximately 2,400 liters/day/acre (6mm/day), Maize needs 2,200 liters/day/acre (5.5mm/day), Kale needs 1,600 liters/day/acre (4mm/day). During hot/dry periods, increase by 20-30%. With drip irrigation (90% efficient), you apply less water than with furrow irrigation (50% efficient).
What is the best irrigation system for small farms in Kenya?
For small farms (0.5-2 acres) in Kenya, drip irrigation is best for high-value crops (tomatoes, peppers, onions). It saves 40-60% water compared to sprinklers, reduces disease, and allows fertigation. Initial cost: KES 150,000-400,000 per acre. For field crops (maize, beans), sprinkler irrigation is cost-effective at KES 100,000-250,000 per acre.
How much does drip irrigation cost per acre in Kenya?
Drip irrigation costs in Kenya (per acre): Basic kit KES 150,000-200,000 (inline drippers, layflat pipes), Standard system KES 250,000-350,000 (venturi injector, pressure regulator), Premium system KES 400,000-600,000 (fertigation tank, automation). Additional: Pump KES 30,000-80,000, Water tank KES 40,000-100,000. Total setup for 1 acre: KES 300,000-500,000.
When is the best time to irrigate crops in Kenya?
Best irrigation timing: Early morning (6am-9am) - minimal evaporation, or Late evening (4pm-7pm) - after heat subsides. AVOID midday (10am-3pm) - up to 50% water lost to evaporation. For drip irrigation, time matters less as water goes directly to roots. Split daily water into 2 applications for sandy soils.
Disclaimer: Water requirements are estimates based on typical crop needs during peak growing season. Actual requirements vary with climate, soil type, rainfall, crop variety, and growth stage. System costs are approximate and vary by supplier and location. Consult irrigation specialists for system design. Energy costs assume standard electricity rates and may vary. Always monitor soil moisture and adjust irrigation accordingly.