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Canopy-cooling systems applied on avocado trees to mitigate heatwaves damages
Silit Lazare1, Helena Vitoshkin2, Victor Alchanatis2
1Gilat Research Center, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Institute, M.P. Negev 8528000, Gilat, Israel.
Spring heatwaves threaten avocado yields. A new sprinkler system cools canopies, reducing tree stress and increasing fruit production by 8-12%. This method offers a simple solution for protecting crops in arid climates.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Climate Change Adaptation
- Horticulture
Background:
- Mediterranean regions face increasing spring heatwaves due to climate change.
- Subtropical crops like avocados are vulnerable to high temperatures, wind, and low humidity, leading to reduced yields.
- Avocado cultivation is expanding in Mediterranean areas, necessitating solutions for heat stress impacts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a sprinkler-based canopy cooling system for mitigating heat stress in avocado orchards.
- To assess the system's effectiveness in a semi-arid region during spring heatwaves.
- To determine the impact of different sprinkler types and configurations on avocado tree physiology and yield.
Main Methods:
- Implemented a sprinkler-based canopy cooling system utilizing existing irrigation infrastructure.
- Tested various sprinkler types (sprayers, sprinklers, pulsing sprinklers) with different flow rates and installation methods.
- Monitored foliage temperature, stem water potential, leaf salt accumulation, fruitlet survival, and overall yield.
Main Results:
- The system effectively reduced leaf temperatures by approximately 10°C.
- Significant decrease in avocado tree drought stress was observed.
- Yields increased by 8-12%, demonstrating the system's positive impact on crop production.
Conclusions:
- Sprinkler-based canopy cooling is a viable and effective method for mitigating spring heatwave impacts on avocado orchards.
- The system offers a practical solution for enhancing crop resilience in semi-arid and desert climates.
- Careful management is needed when using lower-quality water to prevent salt accumulation and leaf damage.
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