Articles
Precision irrigation strategies applied to different irrigation systems in kiwifruit orchard in Mediterranean region
Article number
1409_34
Pages
257 – 266
Language
English
Abstract
Yellow-fleshed kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis) is a species with a high water requirement but at the same time susceptible to waterlogging conditions, which, in combination with a chemically imbalanced soil environment, can lead to a deterioration of its mechanical characteristics, promoting the creation of impermeable layers and contributing to root system asphyxiation.
Conventionally applied irrigation volume in kiwifruit orchards along the Italian peninsula reaches approximately 7,000-10,000 m3 ha 1 with significant seasonal water excess, requiring the establishment of new irrigation strategies aimed at optimal soil water content level to ensure the best conditions for plants.
The research work aims to evaluate different irrigation systems and strategies to optimize water resource management, by controlling water movement and distribution through soil profiles, improving root development and increasing irrigation efficiency.
The experimental field site is located in Metaponto (southern Italy) and cultivated with yellow-fleshed kiwifruit (Zesy002). Different irrigation methods were applied, such as drip irrigation, with two (2DL) and four drip lines (4DL), and sprinkler irrigation (Sprk) with different strategies based on the supply of irrigation volume in several daily interventions.
Soil water content values were monitored continuously with probes installed at 0-15 cm soil layer.
The seasonal theoretical irrigation volume calculated through a simplified water balance using FAO Kc, and taking into account the soil volume affected by irrigation, was 8,619.6 m3 ha 1. Data obtained from probes were evaluated and used to adjust the theoretical volume, allowing reductions of the irrigation volume of 42 and 36% for drip and sprinkler irrigation methods, respectively.
Fruit quality (fresh weight, dry matter, soluble solid concentration, flesh colour and flesh firmness) was analysed for each irrigation system and showed statistical differences between drip and sprinkler irrigation.
Different irrigation strategies applied during phenological stages and environmental conditions are also discussed.
Conventionally applied irrigation volume in kiwifruit orchards along the Italian peninsula reaches approximately 7,000-10,000 m3 ha 1 with significant seasonal water excess, requiring the establishment of new irrigation strategies aimed at optimal soil water content level to ensure the best conditions for plants.
The research work aims to evaluate different irrigation systems and strategies to optimize water resource management, by controlling water movement and distribution through soil profiles, improving root development and increasing irrigation efficiency.
The experimental field site is located in Metaponto (southern Italy) and cultivated with yellow-fleshed kiwifruit (Zesy002). Different irrigation methods were applied, such as drip irrigation, with two (2DL) and four drip lines (4DL), and sprinkler irrigation (Sprk) with different strategies based on the supply of irrigation volume in several daily interventions.
Soil water content values were monitored continuously with probes installed at 0-15 cm soil layer.
The seasonal theoretical irrigation volume calculated through a simplified water balance using FAO Kc, and taking into account the soil volume affected by irrigation, was 8,619.6 m3 ha 1. Data obtained from probes were evaluated and used to adjust the theoretical volume, allowing reductions of the irrigation volume of 42 and 36% for drip and sprinkler irrigation methods, respectively.
Fruit quality (fresh weight, dry matter, soluble solid concentration, flesh colour and flesh firmness) was analysed for each irrigation system and showed statistical differences between drip and sprinkler irrigation.
Different irrigation strategies applied during phenological stages and environmental conditions are also discussed.
Authors
B. Dichio, R. Di Biase, A.C. Tuzio, M. Mastroleo, E. Xylogiannis, A.N. Mininni
Keywords
soil moisture monitoring, drip line, sprinkler, water balance, irrigation management
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