Optimal Irrigation Scheduling for Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) at Gidara Condition, Central Rift Valley of Ethiopia

Abstract

The wise use of irrigation water relies on understanding the exact crop water demand and its application which help to boost agricultural water productivity. Proper irrigation scheduling comprises crop water demand and the rifling frequency of the required water amount. Therefore, this activity was aimed at determining the optimal irrigation regime for pepper. The trial was carried out during 2016 and 2017 to determine the optimal irrigation regime of Pepper (Mareko Fana variety) at Gidara trial site of Melkassa Agricultural Research under five soil moisture depletion levels at which the next irrigation is given: 60% ASMDL, 80% ASMDL, 100% ASMDL, 120% ASMDL and 140% ASMDL). The allowable soil moisture depletion level (100% ASMDL) was scheduled to be refilled when 30% of the total available soil moisture was depleted. The result revealed that there was significant difference in plant height, yield and water productivity among treatments at 5% level of significance. The maximum yield and water productivity were observed in 60% ASMDL treatment. Using depletion levels of 60% and 80% of the recommended soil moisture depletion levels has increased the water productivity significantly. Hence, as much as the total water to be applied throughout the growth period is similar it is better to irrigate pepper frequently with smaller amount.