Improving Water and Nitrogen Management for Maize and Walnut Crops

The project focuses on addressing limited water efficiency and its impact on nitrogen fertilization, specifically in herbaceous open field crops like corn. A professional system, Water and Nitrogen Integrated Management with different Irrigation Methods (GIAcAMI), is being developed to provide timely support based on field-measured parameters. This system will be tested on newly planted walnut trees in the Veneto region, where walnut cultivation is on the rise. The goal is to enhance water and nitrogen use efficiency, particularly for crops with high water and nitrogen demands such as maize and walnuts. The system utilizes soil moisture measurement calibration in various soil types and a smartphone application based on a created database. By inputting soil information, moisture levels, crop type, and phenological stage, farmers can receive guidance on the optimal timing for irrigation, improving overall agricultural practices.