ISHS Acta Horticulturae 313: III International Symposium on Computer Modelling in Fruit Research and Orchard Management
IRRIGATION CONTROL AND YIELD OF SOUR CHERRIES FROM REAL TIME WEATHER INFORMATION |
| Authors: | G.E. Bingham, J.L. Anderson, R.W. Hill |
| Abstract:
A transpiration-yield model (CRPSM) was used in conjunction with a real time weather data collection network to predict cherry orchard transpiration, dry matter production and fruit yield. The model was applied to a cherry orchard with a variety of surface cover treatments, some of which limited the availability of water to the trees. In this simulation, CRPSM calculated potential evapotranspiration using a modified Penman equation. Actual transpiration was estimated using separate crop coefficients for the trees and grass. Soil moisture storage was estimated using a layered soil model from which both the trees and grass extracted water. The output of the model was compared to neutron probe data taken throughout the season. The transpiration portion of the model provided a good indicator of remaining soil moisture, and hence, of irrigation requirement. In this demonstration, weather information was collected by a micrometeorological station in the area of the orchard and relayed to the grower by satellite links. Data developed in the study indicated that these trees had been severely under-irrigated due to a hard pan in the soil profile. Multi-year yield variables such as canopy diameter correlated well with relative seasonal transpiration. Fruit yield in 1991 showed a good correlation to both fruit development period and seasonal transpiration. To be effective over multiple years, the fruit yield estimate portion of the model would have to include a fruit set function not yet included in the model. | |
Download Adobe Acrobat Reader (free software to read PDF files) | |
