How do weeds impact irrigation efficiency?

Weeds significantly impact irrigation efficiency primarily because they compete with cultivated plants for water and nutrients. This competition often forces growers to increase their irrigation efforts to meet the needs of both the intended crops and the weeds. When weeds proliferate in an area designated for agriculture, they can absorb moisture and essential nutrients from the soil that would otherwise be available to the primary crops. As a result, the cultivated plants may experience stress, leading to reduced growth, lower yields, or even crop failure if adequate water and nutrients are not made available.

Effective weed management is crucial for maximizing irrigation efficiency. By controlling weed growth, farmers can reduce the amount of water they need to apply, ultimately leading to better use of water resources and improved crop production.