In young trees, applications of water can be made to the individual trees without wasting water between the trees. The application efficiency and distribution efficiency of trickle irrigation are quite high, so limited water can be used more effectively. Several other benefits of trickle irrigation are known. These include 0' decreased labor requirements, the potential for automated operation, the ability to conduct cultural activities while irrigation is occurring, the ability to apply fertilizer through the irrigation system, and an overall improved control of the water. Several advantages of yield and quality are also claimed as a result of a more uniform moisture management.
Irrigation scheduling remains a problem, however.
The tree will consume Water in addition to that required for optimal fruit production and tree growth. Excessive water application will promote fungal diseases of the trunk, increase the costs of pumping, and decrease the acreage that could be irrigated. The excess growth is lost through pruning. Evidence exists that fruit quality may suffer. The methods based on application of the water consumed the previous day will inevitably provide the maximum water the tree will use.