Irrigation Management Based on Theoretical Requirements Reduces Water Consumption in Apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) Orchards without Effects on Fruit Yield and Components

This research examines the effects of two irrigation strategies on water use efficiency and fruit yield components ‘Royal Gala’ ‘Brookfield apple orchards in south-central Chile. The study was carried out during 2008–2009 2009–2010 growing seasons at sites. A randomized block experimental design established with application treatments: theoretical volume required by plant (T1) farm protocol (T2). Soil content, potential were evaluated. soil content T2 near field capacity while T1 between permanent wilting point for both varieties. With T1, seasonal applied 21 to 28% less compared T2, season savings 1600 m3 ha?1. No effect observed. In lower did not lead significant differences diameter, weight, or either as T2. Gala’, increased significantly, 22.9% treatment season, reductions (p < 0.05) diameter (5.3%) weight (12.9%) observed Productivity per 32% 56% greater than that obtained results show effectiveness strategy considering plant.