Avocado producers are facing significant challenges when it comes to irrigation and adaptation to current climatic conditions. Seeking an efficient model that can help give this crop a boost in southern Spain, Caudal is collaborating with the CSIC on a research project focused on analyzing the impact of implementing a localized drip irrigation system and the use of regenerated water.
The experimental station of the Subtropical and Mediterranean Hortofruticulture Institute La Mayora, in Malaga, is carrying out trials that will continue until March 2026. The goal is to determine the specific water needs of this fruit, which has a root system that is particularly sensitive to the quantity and quality of water.
The implementation of localized drip irrigation seeks not only to improve water and nutrient absorption directly at the roots, but also to minimize the environmental impact associated with less efficient irrigation methods, such as sprinkling.
Caudal is using 16 and 20 mm pipes for the project. These offer flow rates ranging from 1.6 to 3.8 l/h. They are using an auto-compensating and anti-suction model (PC700 AS). The analysis involves setting different parameters, such as the number of lines per dripper and the spacing between them, to determine the most effective configurations. The viability of using regenerated water is also being tested; a measure aimed at alleviating drought and the increasing salinity of well water.
In addition to the direct implications for avocado cultivation, the project's results will also be useful for other crops, such as mangoes, and other areas of the Peninsula with similar conditions.
Caudal: sustainable irrigation
Caudal has been working for over 25 years in efficient and sustainable solutions in irrigation systems for the agricultural sector and drinking water conveyance in the industrial sector. Its products are now available in more than 40 countries.
For more information:
Caudal
Autovía del Mediterráneo, km 661
30890 Puerto Lumbreras, Murcia, Spain
Tel.: +34 968 400 827
Email: [email protected]
https://caudal.es/