Revolutionizing Agriculture: Plant-Based Methods Boost Crop Water Productivity
The article discusses how precision irrigation can help farmers use water more efficiently for growing crops. Researchers have developed various methods using plant-based measurements to assess plant water stress and schedule irrigation. These methods include manual techniques like recording plant water status and gas exchange, as well as automated methods that continuously monitor plant variables. By using tools like the Scholander chamber, portable gas analyzers, and systems for measuring sap flow, farmers can make better decisions about when and how much to water their crops. Other methods, such as measuring stem and leaf water content or canopy temperature, can also improve irrigation practices. It's important for farmers to choose the right production goals and analyze the economic benefits of precision irrigation to get the most out of this technology.