Transpiration and Water Use of an Irrigated Traditional Olive Grove with Sap-Flow Observations and the FAO56 Dual Crop Coefficient Approach

The SIMDualKc model was applied to evaluate the crop water use and coefficient (Kc) of an irrigated olive grove (Olea europaea L.) located in Sicily, Italy, using experimental data collected from two seasons. applies FAO56 dual Kc approach compute actual evapotranspiration (ETc act) its components, i.e., tree transpiration (Tc act), obtained through basal (Kcb), soil evaporation according (Ke). Model calibration performed by minimizing difference between predicted Tc act observed daily measured with sap flow instrumentation (TSF field) acquired 2009. validation independent set measurements 2011. calibrated Kcb equal 0.30 for initial non-growing season stages, 0.42 mid-season, 0.37 end season. For both seasons, goodness-of-fit indicators relative comparing TSF field simulated resulted root mean square errors (RMSE) lower than 0.27 mm d−1 a slope linear regression close 1.0 (0.94 ≤ b0 1.00). balance produced ratio (Es) ETc that averaged 39%. potential (ETc) varied 84% about 99% indicating values are ETc, adopted deficit irrigation led limited stress. results confirm suitability apply crops, thus assessing olives supporting development appropriate management tools usable farmers. A different way estimate is based on suggested 2009 Allen Pereira (A&P), which involves fraction ground covered (shaded) height trees. Its application studied mid-season ranging 0.40–0.45 end-season 0.35–0.40. comparison A&P-computed A&P shows RMSE 0.43 d−1, demonstrates adequacy latter parameterizing models scheduling decision making.