Variation in Within-Block Orchard Canopy Cover - Implications for Crop Water Requirement and Irrigation Management

Abstract

Micro-irrigation systems have improved irrigation efficiency in the viticulture and horticulture industries. Compared to flood and sprinkler irrigation systems, they reduce cover crop and soil evaporation water losses and enable precise scheduling of irrigation events. However, gains in irrigation efficiency can be compromised by variation in crop water requirements and poor distribution uniformity of irrigation supply across an irrigation management unit. These factors can lead to under-irrigation and subsequent yield losses or over-irrigation and wasted water through drainage and runoff. Aerial photographs of orchard blocks in the Goulburn Valley irrigation district of Australia were utili..