Which practice can lead to improved water-use efficiency?

The practice of adopting drip irrigation is associated with improved water-use efficiency due to its design and functionality. Drip irrigation delivers water directly to the root zone of plants, minimizing evaporation and runoff. This targeted approach ensures that plants receive the precise amount of water they need at the right time, significantly reducing water waste compared to other irrigation methods. It allows for more efficient use of water resources, especially in areas prone to drought or where water conservation is crucial.

In contrast, overhead irrigation may lead to water loss through evaporation and wind drift, which can lower its efficiency. Monoculture can affect soil health and pest management and may not directly enhance water-use efficiency. While planting drought-resistant crops can reduce overall water needs, it does not improve the efficiency of water usage in the same way that drip irrigation does by optimizing delivery to the plant's root zone. Thus, drip irrigation stands out as the practice that most directly enhances water-use efficiency.