This paper will discuss from a conceptual standpoint many of the challenges of subsurface drip irrigation (SDI). Topics will include soil water redistribution as affected by soil type and soil characteristics, nutrient availability, differential crop response, system installation concerns, and system maintenance issues. The paper and presentation will summarize material obtained by the author in preparing for a recent book chapter concerning SDI and will also show examples of the challenges as a tool to broaden their conceptual understanding. .