Which type of irrigation is required for areas under 10 feet according to prescriptive guidelines?

The requirement for subsurface or no runoff irrigation for areas under 10 feet is rooted in the principles of sustainable landscape management and water conservation. This type of irrigation system is designed to deliver water directly to the root zone of plants, minimizing evaporation and run-off which can lead to water loss and inefficient usage.

Subsurface irrigation, which includes drip irrigation systems, ensures that water is applied precisely where it is needed – deep in the soil where roots can absorb it efficiently. This method is particularly advantageous in areas where space is limited, as it avoids applying water to the surface, which could lead to saturated soil, erosion, and increased weed growth.

Implementing these practices aligns with guidelines that focus on minimizing environmental impact, making it necessary for landscape architects to adopt methods that conserve water and improve the health of plants. This is especially crucial in California, where water scarcity is a significant concern.

The other types of irrigation mentioned do not adhere to the guidelines for areas under 10 feet due to factors such as excessive water use, potential for runoff, and lack of targeted delivery to plant root zones.