Which of the following helps in ensuring effective water management in crop production?

Drip irrigation is a highly efficient method of watering crops that delivers water directly to the base of the plants through a system of tubing and emitters. This technique minimizes water waste by reducing evaporation and runoff, allowing for precise control over the amount of water each plant receives. As a result, it ensures that crops get the appropriate amount of moisture necessary for optimal growth while conserving water resources.

In contrast, flood irrigation disperses water over a larger area, which can lead to inefficiencies such as water loss through evaporation or runoff, ultimately making it less effective for precise water management. Using poor soil quality does not contribute to effective water management since poor soil can more easily lead to problems such as nutrient leaching or poor water retention. Excessive watering can result in waterlogging and nutrient leaching, further complicating water management. Therefore, drip irrigation stands out as the best option for sustainable and effective water management in crop production.