Pattern of new root production in peach trees under irrigation

Abstract

A seasonal pattern of new root production is described for peach trees under irrigated conditions in northern Victoria. The pattern is similar to that described elsewhere for trees growing under natural rainfall or only intermittently irrigated, most root production occurring in spring with little in summer. The low root production in summer even under frequent irrigation is associated with rapid withdrawal of water from the soil following each irrigation. Irrigation criteria are discussed, since soil water levels conventionally considered adequate for leaves and fruit may be inadequate for root production.