The control of vineyard energy balance by sprinkling irrigation

摘要

A theoretical model to understand and analyse the cooling effect of overhead sprinkler irrigation is proposed, founded on physical principles determining the canopy energy balance. It can predict maximum cooling of foliage starting from fundamentalmicrometeorological variables (net radiation, air temperature and humidity, and windspeed) and aerodynamic characteristics of the canopy. In order to test it, the algorithms were implemented in an automated system to control irrigation in a vineyard in Trentino region, Italy. The use of the proposed algorithms allowed a good overall efficiency of the irrigation system.