Avocado cultivation has become a key part of modern agriculture due to the crop's high global demand. However, efficient irrigation management is a crucial challenge for growers. AZUD experts stress the importance of implementing an accurate and controlled irrigation system to ensure the health and productivity of avocado crops.
Avocado trees need soft, well-aerated soils rich in organic matter. The crop's most effective absorption zone is the first 20-30 cm, so it is highly sensitive to water stress and excess soil moisture.
"It's a plant that needs constant, but carefully managed irrigation," says Raúl Nuévalos, agronomist and sales manager for Central America. "Water deficit can affect growth and production, while too much water can lead to root rot problems."
The most recommended irrigation system for this crop is drip irrigation, as it prevents moisture-related diseases, facilitates the application of fertigation and ensures crop uniformity.
"AZUD develops advanced drip irrigation systems that allow an accurate application of water directly to the root zone of the plants. Our technology ensures that each plant receives the right amount of water, minimizing waste," says Nuévalos. "This technology not only improves water efficiency, but also contributes to the crop's environmental sustainability."
"The plant is very sensitive to salinity in the water, so the drip irrigation system also allows greater control of electrical conductivity (EC). Many areas with excess salinity problems are having compact reverse osmosis irrigation water desalination plants installed that are specifically designed with the needs of this crop in mind."
The use of soil probes and digital management systems is essential to adjust the crop's water needs in real time. "We implement systems that continuously monitor soil and weather conditions and automatically adjust the amount of water applied," says the AZUD expert. "This approach not only optimizes water use, but also improves the quality and yield of the avocados."
Besides technology, Nuévalos also stresses the importance of growers receiving continuous training and technical support. "At AZUD, we provide training and personalized advice so that growers can implement these technologies effectively. This support is essential to maximize the benefits of irrigation innovations."
Increased production and efficient cultivation in Portugal with AZUD technology
In Portugal, a large avocado producer managed to increase its production and save water and energy. "AZUD experts recommended the installation of a drip irrigation system with the AZUD Premier PC AS self-compensating, anti-suction dripper irrigation pipe and the AZUD Helix Automatic self-cleaning disc filtration system. This filtration equipment has proven to be essential for the protection of the farm's irrigation system and significantly contributed to improving productivity."
"The grower managed to optimize water use and increase the production. This case underlines the effectiveness of AZUD's irrigation solutions in challenging agricultural contexts."
"Proper irrigation management reduces operating costs".
Efficient irrigation not only improves the productivity of avocado crops, but also has economic and environmental benefits. "Proper irrigation management reduces operating costs and improves the crop's sustainability," says Raúl Nuévalos. "Growers can obtain higher yields and produce better quality avocados with less water resources.
"Irrigation management is an essential part of avocado cultivation, and the implementation of advanced technologies such as those developed by AZUD can make a big difference. Innovations in drip irrigation, combined with continuous monitoring and technical support, allow growers to optimize water use, improve crop quality and boost sustainability."
"These strategies represent the future of modern agriculture, with efficiency and sustainability playing a key role in tackling the global challenges of food production."
For more information:
AZUD
Pol. Ind Oeste Av. De Las Américas,
P.6/6-Apdo 147, Alcantarilla, Murcia 30820, Spain
Tel.: +34 968 80 84 02
[email protected]
https://azud.com