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Enhancing the crop coefficient method to support real-time irrigation scheduling of a super-high-density olive orchard

Author

Listed:
  • Muñoz-Santisteban, M.
  • Fernández, J.E.
  • Pérez-Romero, L.F.
  • Montero, A.
  • Cuevas, M.V.
  • Paredes, P.

Abstract

In this work, the performance of the FAO-56 crop coefficient (CC) approach is compared with that of Allen and Pereira (A&P) to support real-time irrigation scheduling in terms of crop evapotranspiration (ETc) and irrigation requirements (IR) for a super-intensive ‘Arbequina’ olive orchard. The CC approach used the crop coefficient (Kc) values previously validated in a similar orchard near the experimental site. In the first experimental season, the A&P approach was fed with data on tree height and fraction of ground cover by the canopies and adjusted to the prevailing climate conditions using the minimum relative humidity and wind speed. The remaining variables of the approach were as parameterized for olive. Results showed that the A&P approach overestimated IR by 28 % versus the CC approach. However, no significant differences were generally observed in terms of agronomic performance, e.g., leaf water status, gas exchange, growth, or yield. A sensitivity analysis of the variables required for the A&P estimates identified leaf resistance (rl) as the most influential variable affecting Kc , ETc and consequently IR. Therefore, in the second season, a model for estimating stomatal conductance (gs) was used and rl values were derived inverting these values. This adjustment reduced the IR discrepancy between approaches to just 7 %. More accurate Es estimates may further reduce it. We conclude that the A&P approach is useful for determining IR in super-high-density olive orchards, thereby supporting real-time irrigation scheduling. Still, implementation in a decision support system may be needed to mitigate the complexity of model-based improvements.

Suggested Citation

  • Muñoz-Santisteban, M. & Fernández, J.E. & Pérez-Romero, L.F. & Montero, A. & Cuevas, M.V. & Paredes, P., 2025. "Enhancing the crop coefficient method to support real-time irrigation scheduling of a super-high-density olive orchard," Agricultural Water Management, Elsevier, vol. 321(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:agiwat:v:321:y:2025:i:c:s0378377425006250
    DOI: 10.1016/j.agwat.2025.109911
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