Automated detection of atmospheric and soil drought stress in Ficus benjamina using stem diameter measurements and modelling

Plant stems show reversible diurnal fluctuation and irreversible growth, both related to plant water status. The stem diameter shrinkage swelling are caused by a depletion refilling of the plant’s internal storage pools, while growth occurs when turgor pressure exceeds certain threshold value. For this reason, measurements provide useful tool assess In study, use continuous detect atmospheric soil drought stress in Ficus benjamina L. was explored assessing deviation between measured simulated variations using mechanistic model with moving window calibration. Sap flow, either directly or microclimate, used as input model. Both high vapor deficit reduced content were detected, latter 2 3 days earlier than detection based on maximum daily growth. Therefore, comparing simulations shows great potential for irrigation scheduling horticulture.