Penyiraman

Penyiraman refers to the process of applying water to soil or plants to sustain growth and health. The term comes from the Indonesian verb siram (to water) with the nominalizing suffix -an, and it is used in agriculture, horticulture, and gardening to describe watering activities. It encompasses both manual watering and larger-scale irrigation, as well as practices aimed at managing soil moisture.

Effective penyiraman requires balancing supply with plant demand. Water needs vary by species, soil type, climate, and developmental stage. Overwatering can cause root rot and nutrient leaching; underwatering leads to wilting and stressed growth. Common methods include manual watering with a can or hose, sprinkler systems, drip or trickle irrigation, and subirrigation. Drip irrigation, in particular, delivers water to the root zone with minimal evaporation and weed growth. Scheduling may rely on soil moisture sensors, tensiometers, weather data, or visual cues from plants, and is often enhanced by mulching to reduce evaporation.

Water-management practices emphasize efficiency and sustainability, especially in water-scarce regions. Maintenance of irrigation equipment, proper timing, and consideration of rainfall help optimize penyiraman and protect soil structure and nutrient availability. The concept also intersects with landscape design, crop planning, and local regulations governing water use.