MANAGEMENT OF BUBBLER IRRIGATION SYSTEM IN FRUIT ORCHARD

Abstract

The main objective of this study aims atdetermining an appropriate bubbler system for palm trees (Phoenix dactylifera) age four years in El-Wady El-Geded Governorate.The three types of bubbler were tested to select a proper type for palm trees and compared with "Basin Irrigation system" in two successive growing seasons (2013-2014) - (2014-2015).Laboratory and field tests were carried out to determine engineering and hydraulic characteristics of the selected bubbler type. The selected bubbler discharge was 62 L\h at 1.5 bar, with 0.04 coefficient variation of variation and distribution uniformity 94.5%. Water saving by using selected bubbler of 50% was obtained compared with basin irrigation system. Effect of using selected bubbler on vegetative properties for date palm was determined.The leaf length, number of bunches, pinnae length, number of pinna, lengthof trunk and trunk diameter were measured and recorded for selected bubbler and basin irrigation system.The soil under bubbler irrigation system stored water more efficient than under basin one in soil root zone. The annual costs increased under basin irrigation system and the annual costs decrease by using the bubbler irrigation system about 38%.

Keywords:Palm trees, Basin Irrigation System, Water Management, hydraulic properties, Water Saving