Effects of irrigation methods on water use efficiency and fruit quality of jujube in arid area

In order to investigate the effects of irrigation methods on water distribution, growth and fruit quality in arid areas, mature jujube trees in the experimental zone of Akesu City were studied in 2009. Irrigation water distribution, jujube growth, yield, water use efficiency and fruit quality were conducted based on surface irrigation, drip irrigation and micro-irrigation in the this study. The results indicated that the amount of leaching were decreased under drip irrigation and micro irrigation compared to the surface irrigation. As the consequences, compared to surface irrigation, the above irrigation systems saved water by 49%. The growth of the jujube tree for all of the treatments were no significant. In Jujube growth stage, the leaf area index, chlorophyll content and production were increased under drip and micro irrigation. Jujube yields were increased by 22% and 16% and water use efficiency (WUE) were increased by 240% and 230%, respectively. The fruit diameter, fruit weight, reducing sugar content and the content of Vc were significantly increased. Thus, it suggested that fruit quality and production were significantly increased under drip irrigation and micro irrigation. The research can provide a reference for water saving irrigation in arid regions.