Why is drainage important in irrigation systems?

Drainage is crucial in irrigation systems primarily because it prevents waterlogging, which can lead to detrimental conditions for plants. When excess water accumulates in the soil, it saturates the root zone, limiting the availability of air for plant roots. This lack of aeration can cause root rot and inhibit the overall health and growth of the plants. Proper drainage ensures that excess water is effectively removed from the soil, maintaining optimal moisture levels that support healthy root development and plant growth.

In contrast, while enhancing soil richness, facilitating plant growth, and controlling pests can be benefits of a well-managed irrigation system, they do not directly address the specific issue of excess water in the soil, making effective drainage essential for the overall success of irrigation practices.