Abstract: Alternate furrow irrigation is a high-efficiency water-saving irrigation technology aimed at improving crop yield by improving root signal function，photosynthesis，transpiration，stomatal conductance and other physiological characteristics.Development situation of alternate furrow irrigation technology was introduced.Mechanism of alternate furrow irrigation was expounded，mainly including absorption of root system compensation function，farmland soil water consumption and water use efficiency.Application effect and development prospect of this technology in crop cultivation were clarified.Alternate furrow irrigation can significantly improve crop yield and water use efficiency and has important practical significance in high quality，high yield and water-saving agricultural production.