Evapotranspiration and root development of irrigated corn

Abstract

The actual evapotranspiration process (ETA) and the root development of cv Centralmex corn (Zea mays L.) on a Red-Yellow Podzolic soil of São Desidério, Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil, were studied. The accumulated ETA during the 73-day culture cycle was 455 mm. Water extraction by 0-20 cm; 20-40 cm; 40-60 cm, and 60-80 cm soil level was 36%, 39%, 22%, and 3%, respectively. The period of crop maximum demand, 8.02 mm/day took place after 81-day culture cycle. Culture coefficient (Kc) ranged from 0.41 to 1.16. A significant correlation was observed between ETA (mm/day) and leaf area index (LAI). 90% of root weight was concentrate in the upper of the 45 cm soil.