Study of Irrigation Systems Based on Traditional and Modern Methods: The Case of Onion - A Review

Onion cultivation faces major challenges related to inefficient irrigation management, leading to under- or overirrigation. These problems are compounded by increasing water scarcity due to inadequate water management, climate variability, and unregulated groundwater exploitation. Traditional irrigation systems, such as hand, furrow, and floating irrigation, cause significant water losses, while modern systems often lack precision and do not allow for informed decision-making. This poor irrigation management produces onion bulbs with high water content, reducing their storage capacity and making them vulnerable to biological degradation and pathogens. To address this, innovative solutions have emerged, combining traditional and modern irrigation methods incorporating the Internet of Things (IoT) and Machine Learning (ML). In this article, we review the study of irrigation systems based on traditional and modern methods for onion cultivation. We analyze their advantages, limitations, and challenges, highlighting the potential of technologies based on precision and sustainable irrigation. This review also highlights the importance of adopting innovative approaches to optimize onion production and preserve water resources.