Abstract |
The influence of irrigation method on potato growth and development was assessed during three years. Low volume 'mist' irrigation (M), furrow irrigation (F), mist plus furrow (MF) and no irrigation (NI) were compared. During a high and moderate stress season misting maintained the haulm later into the season and increased the proportion of small and medium size tubers. Further during the high stress season misted plots (M and MF) yielded more than NI plots. Misted canopies had lower leaf, air and soil temperature and higher soil moisture than the non-irrigated plants. Stomata of misted plants did not close as rapidly as those of non-irrigated plants. Leaves from different irrigation methods did not differ consistently in levels of N, K, Mg, Ca or Fe. (Author) |