Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID 2020ND088B

Automatic sensor-controlled drip irrigation under mulches for tomato and watermelon productions

Institute: North Dakota
Year Established: 2020 Start Date: 2020-02-27 End Date: 2021-02-25
Total Federal Funds: $6,477 Total Non-Federal Funds: $20,555

Principal Investigators: Xinhua Jia

Project Summary: Climate in North Dakota state is very extreme and quite unpredictable. Temperature, wind and irrigation water are very important factors for irrigation scheduling. Especially, soil temperature and optimal usage of water are the main constraints to grow vegetables and fruits in North Dakota. These specialty crops need warm temperature and optimal water supply for good yields. The main objective of this research is to apply three new technologies (sensors, drip irrigation and mulches) to provide optimal soil and water conditions for tomato and watermelon production. Three replications were made for each treatment. The pH, electrical conductivity (EC), temperature, fruit weight and fruit size were measured for tomato and watermelon samples. These results will help us to understand the best treatment for tomato and watermelon crops. This study will help us to educate farmers, gardeners, students, staff, and faculty on the latest technologies to farmers. Eventually, farmers will start growing fruits and vegetables.