Intelligent sprinkler irrigation system for citrus orchard in plateau of Yunnan, China

This study was designed to develop water-saving irrigation strategy for citrus cultivation at Xinping County, Yunnan, China. This county has a mountainous landscape with resources of natural rivers. Based on the local standard water quota (DB53/T168-2019) of Yunnan Province, Xinping County falls into the dry-hot valley VI -2 zone. We developed a Smart Sprinklers irrigation system to meet the actual irrigation requirements of citrus plants with multiple benefits starting from economic to social and environmental protection. We considered the specific situation of the project area, and then design an irrigation system for citrus orchard. Hydraulic calculations determined the suitable materials and sizes for pipes, valves, and irrigation equipment, based on the area’s water demand favoring micro-sprinkler irrigation. Following technical standards, we selected appropriate equipment for designing the pipe network, including the layout, positioning, and installation of the pumping station, moisture meters, weather station, and pest monitoring system. Further research could investigate the adoption of renewable energy to enhance system sustainability and examine the transferability of these systems to different crops and similar geographic regions. It is concluded that this technology and design is very useful for the cultivation of citrus plants in hilly areas.