Using HYDRUS-2D model to assess the optimal drip lateral depth for eggplant crop in a sandy loam soil of central Tunisia

Abstract

semi-arid climate and the frequent periods of drought, the country needs to face, more and more often, with severe water shortage and the application of precision irrigation represents a desirable management strategy (Cammalleri et al., 2013). Despite irrigated agriculture covers only 7% of the cropped area, it is responsible for about 33% of agricultural Tunisian products (Zairi et al., 2003). Projections for the future indicate the need to reinforce the role of irrigation in food security to up 50% of the total agricultural production of the country (FAO, 2005). Using HYDRUS-2D model to assess the optimal drip lateral depth for Eggplant crop in a sandy loam soil of central Tunisia