Drip, micro, and hydroponic irrigation systems are all methods for delivering water and nutrients to plants but they differ in their complexity and the way they deliver resources. Drip and micro-irrigation systems are similar, both delivering water directly to the plant roots, often using a network of tubes and emitters. Hydroponics is a broader term referring to growing plants without soil, often using nutrient-rich water solutions. Drip irrigation is commonly used within hydroponic systems.