Water management strategies in fenugreek cultivation

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) is an economically significant crop known for its nutritional, medicinal, and functional food properties. With the increasing global demand for functional foods, optimizing fenugreek cultivation methods has become essential. This study investigates the effects of three irrigation methods—furrow, drip, and sprinkler—on fenugreek yield, physiological performance, water use efficiency (WUE), and economic viability. A randomized block design was used in a field trial, with three irrigation treatments applied to fenugreek crops under controlled conditions. The results indicated that drip irrigation outperformed both sprinkler and furrow irrigation in terms of fresh biomass, seed weight, leaf area index (LAI), stomatal conductance, chlorophyll content, and WUE. Drip irrigation led to a significant increase in yield and physiological parameters, suggesting enhanced water and nutrient uptake. The water use efficiency of drip irrigation was the highest, with values significantly greater than those of sprinkler and furrow irrigation methods. Additionally, the economic analysis demonstrated that while drip irrigation requires higher initial investment, it provides superior profitability due to higher yields and improved WUE, making it the most economically viable option. These findings highlight the importance of adopting efficient irrigation systems like drip irrigation in fenugreek cultivation, particularly in water-scarce regions, to enhance yield, conserve water, and improve the economic viability of farming practices. The study contributes valuable insights for policymakers, agricultural extension services, and farmers, supporting the adoption of sustainable irrigation practices to ensure food security and environmental sustainability.