Surface irrigation involves applying water directly to the soil surface, allowing it to infiltrate into the root zone. Common types include:

Furrow Irrigation: Water flows in small channels between rows of crops. It’s suitable for row crops and helps reduce water wastage.

Border Irrigation: Fields are divided into strips or borders, and water flows down the borders. It’s effective for large, flat fields.

Basin Irrigation: Land is divided into small, level basins surrounded by bunds. It’s used for crops like rice that need standing water.

Flood Irrigation: Water is applied to the entire field, allowing it to cover the land. It’s simple but can lead to high water wastage.

Surface irrigation is cost-effective but may require careful management to avoid waterlogging and inefficiency.