Real Time Determination of Irrigation Scheduling for Micro-Irrigated Orchards

Up to now the acreage under micro irrigation in China is about 133 000 hm², and will be enlarged quickly in the near future. Upon the installation of a micro irrigation system, people usually do not care much about its management. The present research on operational management is far from practical needs, especially in irrigation scheduling. In this paper, a technique system of real time determination of irrigation scheduling for micro irrigated orchards, adaptable for the farmers is presented. The irrigation scheduling is based on measurements on the following key factors: weather, soil and crop. The detailed procedures of the technique system are given in this paper. This system provides a technically practical way of orchard irrigation management, and the foundation in extension of micro irrigation technology in China.