What is the main purpose of irrigation in a nursery setting?

The primary purpose of irrigation in a nursery setting is to provide adequate moisture for plant growth and health. Water is essential for various physiological processes in plants, including photosynthesis, nutrient transport, and overall growth. In a nursery, maintaining the right moisture levels is crucial to ensure that plants develop strong root systems, remain healthy, and can thrive in their growing environment.

While irrigation can have secondary benefits, such as improving nutrient uptake when applied alongside fertilizers or even influencing soil aeration indirectly, those are not its main objectives. Moreover, irrigation does not directly control pest infestations, which is typically managed through integrated pest management strategies rather than solely relying on water application. Thus, ensuring plants receive the proper amount of water is fundamental to achieving successful nursery practices.