Physiology-driven precision irrigation for almond nut quality and profitability under contrasting Mediterranean environments

Abstract

This article evaluates the physiological, quality, and economic performance of three commercial almond cultivars (Guara, Marta, and Lauranne) subjected to regulated and sustained deficit irrigation strategies in two orchards with contrasting agroeconomic conditions. Moving beyond conventional agronomic assessments, the study integrates physiological indicators commonly used in precision irrigation scheduling, including leaf water potential and stomatal conductance, to interpret cultivar-specific responses and assess these strategies within a data-informed irrigation management framework. Results indicate that deficit irrigation can enhance resource-use efficiency by achieving water savings greater than the proportional reduction in yield, without compromising kernel quality and even improving attributes linked to sensory quality and potential market value. These gains in quality and efficiency improve irrigation water productivity and profitability, providing a mechanism to ensure economic performance at the orchard level and supporting deficit irrigation as a viable precision-irrigation strategy under water scarcity conditions.