Assessment of the Impact of Deficit Irrigation on Grapevines in the Semi-Arid Region of Ukraine Using the AquaCrop Model
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of deficit irrigation for wine grape varieties in the semi-arid region of Ukraine using the AquaCrop model. Developed by the FAO, AquaCrop simulates crop productivity based on the soil–plant–atmosphere water balance. The modeling considered agrometeorological conditions during the growing season, including canopy cover, transpiration activity, soil moisture dynamics, biomass accumulation, water balance, yield, and water productivity. Results demonstrated that moisture deficiency during leaf area formation was the main limiting factor for productivity. A significant slowdown in canopy expansion (40 %) led to reduced seasonal transpiration and a 14 % decrease in biomass. In contrast, limitations in gas exchange due to stomatal closure were minor (7 %), while heat stress effects were negligible (4 %), playing only a minor role in the overall productivity balance. The simulated yield reached 10.7 t/ha, confirming the stability of yield formation mechanisms even under hydrothermal instability. To ensure full leaf area development and enhance vineyard productivity, irrigation management should be optimized with an emphasis on the early stages of grapevine growth.
Keywords
References
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Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
Horticultural Production (Other)
Journal Section
Research Article
Publication Date
April 20, 2026
Submission Date
September 9, 2025
Acceptance Date
March 13, 2026
Published in Issue
Year 2026 Number: 1