Irrigation management survey for tropical fruit crops in South Florida.
Li Y. C., Crane J., Boman B., Balerdi C.
Author Affiliation: Tropical Research and Education Center, IFAS, University of Florida, 18905 SW 280 Street, Homestead, FL 33031, USA.
Proceedings of the Florida State Horticultural Society 113 : 40-42
Abstract : Irrigation is critical management for tropical fruit production in south Florida, USA. Little is known of current irrigation practices used on tropical fruit crops. A survey of avocado, 'Tahiti' lime [Citrus latifolia], mango, carambola, lychee, longan, mamey sapote [Pouteria sapota], and papaya was conducted to obtain background information on current irrigation practices including system, rates, timing, frequency and perceived information needs. The survey was carried out during the summer and autumn of 1998 and the data compiled and analysed in 1999. Of the 108 surveys mailed, 53 commercial growers responded. Irrigation practices varied widely among commodities and growers. This baseline information will give us the opportunity to design extension and research programmes to address the needs of growers.