Journal publication within the framework of Stafilos project

Irrigation management in areas affected by climate change requires accurate determination of water losses through transpiration in crops, such as grapevines. The aim of this study was to develop models capable of precisely determining transpiration losses in grapevines under both full irrigation and rainfed conditions.

To measure transpiration losses, appropriate sap flow sensors were employed, while the results were compared with the predictions from the models. The findings showed that the vapor pressure deficit (VPD) is the main factor affecting canopy conductance, which decreases exponentially as VPD increases. Additionally, it was found that solar radiation intensity (Rs) affects transpiration losses to varying degrees depending on the growing season.

Model validation demonstrated that reliable predictions of water losses through transpiration can be made for vineyards, whether irrigated or rainfed.

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