If water runs off during irrigation, what does this indicate?

When water runs off during irrigation, it indicates an excessive application rate. This phenomenon occurs when the rate at which water is being applied to the soil exceeds the soil's ability to absorb it. Each soil type has a specific infiltration rate, which is the maximum rate at which water can percolate through the soil. If water is delivered too quickly—perhaps due to using larger irrigation equipment or overly intense application methods—the soil cannot take it in fast enough, resulting in surface runoff.

In a well-managed irrigation system, the goal is to match the application rate with the infiltration rate of the soil to prevent runoff and ensure effective water absorption. Excessive application can lead not only to wastage of water but also to erosion and nutrient leaching, which can undermine soil health. Additionally, understanding this relationship is crucial for optimizing irrigation schedules and water conservation practices.