Deficit, High‐frequency Sprinkler Irrigation of Wheat

Abstract The effect of daily deficit sprinkler irrigation on the yield and quality of wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) was evaluated using the line source technique. Studies were conducted on sandy and loam soils with much different water‐holding characteristics. Irrigation rate variables were initiated at about the time of full cover (pre‐ to early‐boot) when the soils were near the upper limit of available water. Evapotranspiration (ET) rates were estimated from evaporation pan (E p ) data as ET = 0.95 E p . On the sand, the yield and quality of wheat increased with increased application of water, up to about 100% estimated ET. On the loam soil, daily irrigations which equalled or exceeded 40% estimated ET produced similar yields. On this soil, the total water used, including water depleted from the soil, also varied over a wide range without affecting yields.