Empirically derived crop coefficient values for tomatoes grown in protected structures under climatic condition of Jalandhar, Punjab
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54386/jam.v27i2.2953Keywords:
Crop coefficient, Protected structures, Crop evapotranspiration, Reference evapotranspiration, Growth stages, PolyhouseAbstract
In modern agriculture, calculating the Crop Water Requirement (CWR) for tomato crops under protected cultivation often relies on FAO-56 crop coefficient (Kc) values. However, these values may not fully account for the unique microclimatic variations within protected structures, creating a need for adjusted Kc values. This study aimed to develop growth-stage-specific Kc values for tomatoes grown under protected conditions in Jalandhar, Punjab. Results showed that daily microclimatic parameters, excluding relative humidity, were consistently higher in open-field conditions and lowest within protected environments. Pooled data indicated growth-stage-specific Kc values of 0.51, 1.05, and 0.61 for shed net houses; 0.53, 1.08, and 0.63 for polyhouses with insect net ventilation; and 0.51, 1.10, and 0.67 for open-field conditions, corresponding to the initial, mid, and late growth stages, respectively. Water consumption was highest during the mid-stage, decreasing progressively toward crop maturity. These empirically derived Kc values support precise CWR calculations through climatological irrigation scheduling, benefiting tomato cultivation in protected environments and similar agro-climatic regions. The development of growth-stage-specific Kc values provides a scientific foundation for improving irrigation water management and resource efficiency, offering valuable insights for farmers, policymakers, and water resource planners.
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