An efficient irrigation method for facility-cultivated grape trees at various stages of development

Achieving global fruit demand can be realized through the application of agricultural technologies. However, it is crucial to first overcome the enormous agricultural challenges posed by the implementation of efficient irrigation technologies. To address the issues related to inadequate water supply and inefficient traditional fruit tree irrigation methods, we propose a cost-effective and efficient approach—the “439” field precision irrigation scheme. This scheme predicts four relative soil water content minimum thresholds (RSWCTs) and maximum (RSWCTe) thresholds (relative to the percentage of field capacity [FC]) for starting and ending irrigation. By exploring the relationship between RSWCTs, RSWCTe and fruit quality, we assessed the scheme's effectiveness. A practical case study was conducted on grape (Vitis vinifera L., ‘87-1’) cultivated in a facility from 2019 to 2022 to evaluate the scheme's impact on irrigation management. The results indicate that maintaining 70%–80 % FC from germination stage (GS) to end bloom stage (EBS), 70%–80 % FC from EBS to veraison stage (VS), 55%–70 % FC from VS to maturation stage (MS), and 55%–65 % FC from MS to deciduous stage (DS) improve single grain weight (SGW). Similarly, to improve total soluble solid content, 60%–80 % FC is suggested from GS to EBS, 70%–80 % FC from EBS to VS, 60%–70 % FC from VS to MS, and 60%–70 % FC from MS to DS. To improve peel strength and fruit quality index (FQI), 70%–80 % FC is recommended from GS to EBS, 60%–70 % FC from EBS to VS, 55%–65 % FC from VS to MS, and 55%–70 % FC from MS to DS. This management tool helps farmers optimize irrigation efficiency and increase profits by growing high-quality fruit. In summary, the implementation of the “439” field precision irrigation system, coupled with fruit quality analysis, holds promise for enhancing water efficiency in precision agriculture.