Investigation of eggplant root distribution under deficit irrigation applications

In this research, it was aimed to determine root distribution of eggplant plant under deficit irrigation. The study was conducted in a glasshouse in the spring. Eight different irrigation treatments (S-100, S-80, S-60, S-40, SYIS-100, SYIS-80, SYIS-60, SYIS- 40) were discussed. Amounts of irrigation water were planned as 80%, 60% and 40% of the water amount applied to the control treatment (S-100). Irrigation water was applied via drip irrigation method. In the calculation of irrigation water, the evaporation values taken from the Class-A Evaporation Pan were used. Yield, irrigation water efficiency, root density, etc. numerous observations and measurements have been made. Changes in the responses of the eggplant plant, depending on the different irrigation level and water application method, were determined. The difference between the yield values was found to be significant at P<0.005 significance level. The highest yield was obtained from SYIS-100 treatment. At the end of the season, the average root density for the entire root zone was found to be at most 0-10 cm depth. At other depths (10-20 cm and 20-30 cm), the root density decreased significantly compared to the 0-10 cm layer. Three of the 5 treatments with the highest root density were determined as partial root drying irrigation treatments. In general, an increase in root density was observed due to the increase in irrigation water. In SYIS treatments, the root density was higher in the relatively irrigated part of the plant compared to the part left relatively dry. As a result of the research; while SYIS-100 treatment is recommended under adequate water supply conditions, in insufficient water supply conditions, suggestions such as S-80, S-60, SYIS-80, S-40, SYIS-40 can be made respectively.