A method of optimizing water applications of a center pivot irrigation system. The field is mapped to determine the yield potentials of various parts of the field. The field map is divided into sectors or zones and the yield potentials of those sectors or zones are determined. The number of sectors or zones to be irrigated is dependent upon the water flow available to the irrigation system. Only those sectors or zones which can receive adequate irrigating water to achieve the predetermined water application depth will be irrigated.
