Improvement in water use efficiency of drip irrigated corn in arid region

Limited water resources, shows the need for efficient use of water in agriculture. In this study to evaluate the impact of water rates based on soil moisture levels on yield of maize. Experiment was conducted in a split plot in randomized complete block design with three replications in Kerman Agriculture and Natural Resources Research Center (Jupar region) during 2008-2010. Four irrigation treatments were conducted including net crop water requirements (control treatment) and 3 treatments, of 1.2FC, 1.5FC and 1.8FC. The FC was measured using installed Tensiometer in each treatment. Irrigation interval in control treatment was calculated by FAO-Penman-Montheith model. The product yield, applied irrigation water, irrigation water consumption, water use efficiency, yield components and some measure of economic benefit to cost ratio were evaluated. Results showed the yield of maize was consistent with the reduced volume of irrigation. Accordingly, corn yield in control treatment was 8.5, 29 and 37 percent was higher compared to 1.2FC, 1.5FC and 1.8FC irrigation treatments, respectively. It is while, applied irrigation water increased 8.5, 13.5, and 17 percent compared to the control treatment. As a result, corn water use efficiency was equal in control and 1.2FC treatments. Irrigation frequency for the control treatment through was 2 days interval and that was obtained for other treatments based on Tensiometer monitoring and ranged from 3 to 8 days. Economic comparison confirmed superior control treatment and treatment 1.2FC compared to other treatments.