Microirrigation for Citrus Production in Florida

Abstract

The popularity of microirrigation for Florida citrus production is primarily due to the many production benefits of this technology. Governmental regulations encourage microsystem use by limiting the water volume allocated to growers through water use permits. Severe frosts that have damaged much of the N. citrus belt have encouraged the use of microirrigation. Newly developed citrus groves are almost always irrigated by microirrigation due to the lower initial system and pumping costs, rapid young tree growth, frost protection and water conservation. The combination of sandy soils, climate and geological factors, such as salt water intrusion have led to widespread use of microirrigation in the Florida citrus industry despite the disadvantages of emitter clogging and increased management intensity.