Validation of Soil Moisture Simulation and Water Balance Analysis in a Citrus Orchard in Jiangxi Province, China

Abstract

In order to study the soil moisture of peanut fields in the region of red soil and to develop water-saving agriculture along gentle slope upland in southern China , the numerical modeling of soil moisture dynamics was established, based on Richard movement equitation. The simulated soil moisture was in good agreement with measured data. Modeling analysis showed that the soil hydraulic parameters are more sensitive than other kind of parameters. The simulation also demonstrated that the cumulative evapotranspiration in the 150 ㎝ soil profile at upper slope is higher than lower slope. In conclusion, it's advantageous for tillage soil at the lower slope to keep soil moisture and resist the drought in the peanut field during dry season in southern China. The numerical modeling of soil moisture has practical significance to improve the management of water capture and retention and development of water-saving agriculture.