Crop Response to Combined Availability of Soil Water and Its Salinity Level: Theory, Experiments and Validation on Golf Courses

The phenomenological expression showing crop yield to be directly dependent on water deficiency, under saline conditions, has encouraged a continued focus salinity as viable approach increase yields. This work reassesses response availability of soil ASW in two stages (A) Develop simple suggesting that permanent wilting point (WP) increases high tension and relative Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L., var longifolia Lam., cv. Nevada) maize (Zea mays Jubilee sweet) decrease. (B) Using deterministic numerical model validate the theory Bermuda grass golf courses. experimental plots were established North Negev, Israel (Sweet corn) Algarve, Portugal (Lettuce covering courses). Sprinkler irrigation line source techniques used for application, creating gradient precise distribution. Two empirical models tested (Mass Hoffman MH van Genuchten–Gupta vGG). Their modified instead electrical conductivity (ECe) we RASW follow changes yield. validation was conducted with theoretical plant atmosphere (SPAW) predict results It is concluded an alternative S-shaped provides better fit our data sets. Modified (Yr = Y/Ymax ? (ASW–threshold’s constant) revealed single dimensionless curve could express yield—salinity interference when represented by varying ASW. vGG model: can represent salt tolerance most crops, using average root zone salinity, at which declined 50%. abscissa both based WP rather than standard (ECw). correlation between or available (RASW) acceptable and, therefore, their usefulness prediction well. objectives this study were: 1. To develop describing effect through production; 2. replace ECe parameters (at point- ?wp field capacity ?fc) order describe relationship them 3. Validate new respect independent Golf courses mathematical model.