Modelling the response of tomato on deficit irrigation under greenhouse conditions

Optimizing crop irrigation is crucial for sustainable production as water scarcity rises with climate change. Crop models like AquaCrop, supported by experimental data, are valuable for this purpose. Although widely used in open fields, AquaCrop has limited application in greenhouses. This study calibrates and validates AquaCrop for greenhouse tomatoes using a split-plot design, with main treatments of irrigation management [full irrigation (FI) at 100% ETc vs. deficit irrigation (DI) at 75% FI] and subplot fertilization [no fertilization, mineral fertilization, organic compost, and sieved compost (< 2 mm)]. Simulations included yield, biomass, water productivity, and irrigation needs. With 30 years of weather data, the model analyzed how outside temperatures affect yield, biomass, and water productivity. Results showed accurate crop estimates, though soil water content was slightly overestimated. DI reduced fruit yield by an average of 14.1%, and 12.6% over 30 years. Findings suggest AquaCrop can enhance greenhouse agriculture, supporting sustainable practices in a changing climate.