Irrigation and Fertilization Control Trial Using Two Different Drip Irrigation Systems (AutoAgronom and Conventional Drip) in Greenhouse Cucumber Production in Israel

Abstract

Since agriculture is the highest consumer of water, there are many trials to improve water use efficiency especially in arid countries. Thus, in the world are developed many irrigation techniques that could decrease water use. In this paper is analyzed new irrigation technique (AutoAgronom) used in greenhouse cucumber (two varieties Rocky and Champion) production in order to improve water use in Israel. AutoAgronom is tested against conventional system where drip irrigation was used. AutoAgronom (AA) system follows pH, Electrical conductivity, oxygen level and nitrates on which basis irrigation was done. Obtained results strongly recommend use of AA system in vegetable production. In variety Champion irrigated by AA system (9.167 kg/m²) obtained yield was 20% higher in comparison with the same variety under conventional drip irrigation. Quantity of irrigation water, as well as fertilizers using AutoAgronom system are saved up to 9.7%, while phosphoric acid is saved up to 8.3%.