Mismatch between water applied during irrigation and that required by the crop for transpiration is a major cause of poor returns per unit water use and of land degradation. This study tests the capability of sap-flow gauges to detect water stress and hence need for irrigation.

The results show the limitation of employing sap-flow systems in managing irrigation. Another implication of the findings proposes using weighted crop factor to match irrigation with grapevine water-requirements.

Matching Irrigation to Vine Water Requirements: Limitations of using Sap-flow Technology for Scheduling Irrigation

Acta Horticulturae, 2005, vol 694, pages 165-171