Irrigation is a critical factor, affecting yield. The key is to match crop demand throughout the season, with particular emphasis on flowering and fruit set, as these stages are major determinants of crop yield. Ensuring that adequate moisture is available during fruit sizing is also important because the fruit size has a direct affects the price. Growers producing for the fresh market are paid on the basis of fruit size, while those producing citrus for juice are paid based on the concentration of solids (sugars) in the fruit. The implications on fruit quality of not matching irrigation to crop demand include nutritional deficiencies and disorders of fruits, which will reduce premium returns in the fresh market. As irrigation management influences all of these factors, the irrigation strategy can have a direct effect on profitability.
With the cost and availability of water becoming an increasing factor in production, it is important that this valuable resource is managed efficiently. An irrigation strategy that matches crop demand is not only good for profitable production, but is also environmentally sustainable. The irrigations applied should match the root zone depth to avoid leaching water and nutrients through the profile.
Irrigation is all about converting water into profit and the best irrigators get the most out of every drop. Water is your most valuable resource and automatic monitoring using a soil moisture probe as your best liquid advisor.
Using the scientifically proven capacitance technology to continuously measure volumetric soil moisture content at multiple depths in the soil, it is possible to visualize plant water use and actually watch the plants drink. Through strategic irrigation management you can then manipulate crops to improve yield, quality, uniformity, and the timing of harvest, to ensure you meet your marketing objectives and improve your bottom line.
The SensorSentry remote monitoring solution: