INFLUENCE OF IRRIGATION LEVELS ON THE GROWTH, MINERAL CONTENT, AND FRUIT QUALITY OF "ANNA" APPLES

Abstract

this investigation was conducted to evaluate the response of 8 year - old " Anna " apple tees, to different irrigation treatments and emitters distribution. Water requirements were calculated based on the climatic data, consequently an irrigation program included three irrigation treatments : optimum rote IO0) %, of the crop water requirement (CWR). medium rate (759% CWR ) and low rate ( S0 % CWR ). Emitters were arranged as an emitter ( 16 L/h. ). 2 emitters ( 8 1. / h. ) and4 emitters (4 L/h. ). Moderate irrigation rate . ( 75 % CWR) recorded the best results in order to vegetative , root and fruit growth , yield, fruit properties and water efficiency . Regarding the effect of emitter position , the best results were found with (y) treatment under optimum and moderate irrigation rates or (X) position under low irrigation rate. In addition to overcome the bad effect due to shertaye in water availabe for irrigation , it is preferable to use one emitter of high dscharge ( I6 I/h ) against each tree trunk, while under the normal condition , two emitters (8 /I) followed by 4 emitte ) tree is recommended. Use Other Side if Necessary