Location: Chile
Soil air content effects on the water status of avocado trees
Avocado trees evolved in Andisoils, which are considered the optimum type of soils for tree growth due to their physical properties; mainly low bulk density (0.5 - 0.8 g cm(-3)) and high macro porosity (similar to 46%). In Chile, avocado orchards are mostly located in fine textured soils, with bulk densities between 1.3 and 1.5 g cm(-3) and macro porosities close to 15%. Due to this fact, there are severe problems of poor root aeration which, in part, are responsible for the low production levels
Responses of avocado production to variation in irrigation levels
The effects of four irrigation regimes on fruit production and size were evaluated for three seasons in a mature ‘Hass’ avocado orchard (Persea americana Mill.). The research was conducted in Chile’s Central Valley on a clay loam soil at the surface and sandy loam from 0.3 to 0.9 m. Climate zone is sub-humid, Mediterranean-type. A completely randomized block design was used with four applied water treatments (25, 50, 75, and 100% of reference evapotranspiration, ETo), estimated on the basis
Different levels of water and fertilizer application in 'Hass' avocado trees during four seasons in the Peumo Valley of Chile
A research study was carried out during four seasons between December 2003 to May 2007, in five years old ‘Hass’ avocado trees (Persea americana Mill.) in the Peumo Valley, Chile. Its objective was to analyze the effects of two doses of fertilizer and four differential levels of water application (25, 50, 75 and 100% of the theoretical water volume required by the plant) on the production and quality of the fruit. A split-plot experimental design with allocation in completely randomized blocks
Multilevel business power in environmental politics: the avocado boom and water scarcity in Chile
The production and export of avocados in Chile have experienced explosive growth since the 1990s, severely threatening local communities' human right to water. Despite contentious activities and protest, there has been scant reaction from public authorities and policy continues to strongly support avocado exports. We explain this by analyzing the role that business plays in water politics and the different means it has to counter the search for political influence by aggrieved communities. We argue
Soil moisture profiles under different conditions associated with irrigation efficiency of drip irrigation - case studies from avocado and mandarin, Limari River Valley
Six tests were done to evaluate the application of irrigation rates in Limarí River Valley (30°36’ South Latitude 71°12’ West Longitude and 218 m of altitude) in avocado and mandarin tree orchards during two agricultural seasons. Assessments were made in volumes of water applied, discharge of the drippers and irrigation frequency used. Also, the water stored in the soil profile was monitored by moisture direct sampling with drill, performed deeply and transversely to the drip lines and plantation