An integrated system for monitoring sap flow and simultaneously performing
data-logging and automatically scheduling irrigation in a field;
comprising a plurality of in situ sap flow gauges that perform its
comprehensive computer-controlled tasks in the field being irrigated.
This plurality of sap flow gauge can be detached from and reattached to a
like plurality of plant stems as appropriate. A scaling mechanism is used
to calculate crop water usage in variously-sized fields. An integrated
portable computer apparatus is programmed to perform a plurality of
actions including sap flow monitoring via a controller and data-logger;
data-logging and automatic irrigation scheduling; a plurality of sap flow
gauges; an automatic rain gage; a water meter; an irrigation valve
actuator; and any auxiliary and independent weather or soil monitoring
sensors. The system is connected to a PC, mounted in a weatherproof
enclosure, and powered by rechargeable battery, solar panel, or AC mains
power with battery backup. Computerized monitoring and control procedures
are initialized via a custom-developed graphical user interface. At any
predetermined interval set by a user, the depth or volume of water
required to balance transpiration losses is calculated and irrigation is
then automatically triggered. The system affords closed loop control with
water flow from soil through plant to atmosphere and from irrigation--and
having the benefit of a feedback loop.