Innovative approaches for improving water productivity in fruit crops

Abstract

Among the various factors which affect the production and productivity of fruit crops, nutrient and water assume more significance. Since majority of the fruit crops in India are grown under water scarcity conditions, economising the limited water available through improved micro irrigation systems invariably enhances the productivity and quality of fruit crops. The concept of fertigation in perennial crops has given a definite edge over conventionally used basin method of irrigation coupled with basal or top dressing of fertilizers within the perimeter of trees. Mulching is very useful in protecting the roots of the plants from heat and cold and is used to cover soil surface around the plants to create congenial condition for the growth especially under rainfed conditions. Based on the research work carried out at ICAR-IIHR over the years, the fertigation schedule for important fruit crops of the region have been worked out. Partial root zone drying irrigation in papaya meeting 80% replenishment of evaporation even with one emitter per plant resulted in significantly higher number of fruits (54/plant) and higher water productivity (23.7 kg/m3) could be obtained by scheduling the irrigation at 40% evaporation replenishment through shifting of laterals at fortnightly intervals. Further, higher papaya yield (48.0 t/ha) was recorded with normal drip irrigation (wetting 80% soil volume) under closer spacing (1.5 m x 1.5 m). Sensor based irrigation technologies with energy of the system provided by solar power and controlled by smart phones increases the usability of the system.