Cannot be used on all the soil types (i.e. on soils with high infiltration rate).

Less efficient irrigation method, average efficiency 45-60%.  Using careful management improved water control and re-use of tail water runoff, efficiency can be as 70-75% high.

Land grading is required.

Hard to control and measure the flow.

Can create water logging and soil salinity if drainage is not provided.

It is labour intensive (see picture).

It is difficult to apply light, frequent irrigations.

Chemigation is not possible during irrigation and can be delayed because of the wet soil.

Limited fertigation is possible.

Requires careful management. There must be a balance between the size and shape of the field, slope, water flow rate, soil infiltration characteristics and surface roughness.

Tail water runoff is inevitable.