What is irrigation? Describe two methods of irrigation which conserve water.

Irrigation refers to the process of providing water to the crops.

Two methods of irrigation are:
a. Sprinklers: Sprinklers are farm equipment that are connected through pipes. Water comes out of the sprinklers as a fine jet stream and is sprayed on the crops. Some sprinklers spray water on all sides in a fine mist or have rotating nozzles that sprinkle water in a circular fashion covering a larger area. Sprinklers are effective since they help in managing wastage of water.

b. Drip irrigation: This system is used to save water as it allows the water to flow drop by drop at the roots of the plants. The wastage due to evaporation is minimal since the water is delivered directly where it is required and not all over the soil. This method of irrigation is best suited for fruit, flowering trees, household plants etc.