Relevance of sprinkler irrigation time of the day on alfalfa forage production

摘要: Abstract Nighttime sprinkler irrigation usually results in lower water losses and higher uniformity compared with daytime due to wind speed. However, modifies the microclimatic conditions within crop canopy which could result improved growth. We studied during three years effect of nighttime on yield, N content, uptake, use efficiency, microclimate temperature an alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) irrigated a solid-set system semiarid Mediterranean climate. Two treatments were tested: irrigation. The same amount was applied both (552 757 mm year−1). (10%) tripled (3%). In one year, decreased mean Christiansen coefficient (CU) by 4% seasonal CU 2%. Microclimatic changes for as Daytime slightly reduced soil content surface layer (0–0.3 m). actual evapotranspiration (+3.7%) treatment only years. annual forage yield (16 22 Mg ha−1), (3.16 3.38%), uptake (514 740 kg ha−1) efficiency (17.7 25.9 kg ha−1 mm−1) not affected time day. Although some saving, can be performed if necessary.