Western Cape

We installed NOVAPs at a young Arra block in the DeDoorns district early in September 2018. During our site visit at the end of January 2019, we inspected soil moisture as well as root development.

Soil moisture was good, and the plants’ deep root development in the moist area around the NOVAP, excellent. From installation a saving of around 40% on water was recorded. No moisture loss as a result of evaporation.

Root development was deeper than the surface irrigated blocks, making the influence of surface climate less on the fine feeder roots. Moisture is contained at the deep root level, and the top 120-150mm of soil surface stays dry. Much less weed growth.