Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 Corresponding Author, Assistant Professor, Department of Agronomy, Agriculture faculty, Islamic Azad University, Maybod Branch, Maybod, Iran
2 Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Agronomy, Islamic Azad University, Maybod Branch, Maybod, Iran
3 Assistant Professor, Agricultural Engineering Research Department, South Kerman Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Jiroft, Iran
Abstract
Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different deficit-irrigation methods on forage yield, quality and water use efficiency of alfalfa under different water applications in agricultural research center of Jiroft province
Methods: The field experiment was carried out in split plot in a randomized complete block design with three replications for two years in agricultural and natural resources research center of Jiroft. Experimental treatments include three types of irrigation systems (Flooding Irrigation (FI), Subsurface tap irrigation (STI), and subsurface drip irrigation (SDI)) and four levels of irrigation (I100: replenishment of 100 Percent of plant water requirements, I90: replenishment of 90 Percent of plant requirements, I80: replenishment of 80 Percent of plant water requirements, and I70: replenishment of 70 Percent of plant water requirements).
Results: The results showed an irrigation level of 70 percent of plant water requirements decreased NDF, CP (31 Percent) and dry forage yield. Irrigation methods and drought stress resulted in a significant reduction in fresh forage yield, water use efficiency, ASH (percent). The highest fresh forage yield, ASH (percent) were obtained by 100 percent of plant water requirements× Subsurface tap irrigation (STI). The highest Fresh forage yield water use efficiency obtained by 70 percent of plant water requirements × Subsurface drip tap irrigation (STI).
Conclusion: In the conditions of drought and low irrigation levels, for achieving higher water use efficiency, it is suggested to use subsurface drip irrigation method. The subsurface drip irrigation system can decrease the negative effects of water stress on plants.
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