Evaluation of Hydraulic and Irrigation Performances of Drip Systems in Nectarine Orchards in The Mediterranean Region

This study focused on evaluating the performance of the drip irrigation systems in-stalled in 18 different nectarines (Prunus persica var. nucipersica) orchards in the Tarsus Plain in the Mediterranean region from 2017 through 2018. The performance of drip systems was evaluated based on parameters like average emitter discharge (Qavg), Christiansen uniformity coefficient (CU), distribution uniformity (DU), emis-sion uniformity (EU), and system application efficiency (Ea). The results indicated that CU varied between 81-98%; DU changed from 82 to 97%; EU 61-92%; absolute emis-sion uniformity (EUa) ranged between 93-98%; statistical uniformity (Us) changed from 85 to 97%; application efficiency of low-quarter (AELQ) varied between 45-97%; potential application efficiency of low-quarter (PELQ) ranged between 55-83%; system application efficiency (Ea) changed from 56 to 96%; storage efficiency (Es) fluctuated between 45-97%; pressure variation (Pv) 17-81% and emitter flow variations (qv) of 2-36% were determined. Although CU, DU, and EU values were acceptable, the varia-tions in emitter flow rates and pressure were not acceptable. Results revealed that the lower performances might be attributed to clogging and/or lack of system design and application practices by the farmers. It is recommended that the farmers get appropri-ate training on the operation and management of drip irrigation systems.