Laboratory of Water, Irrigation and Fertigation

The laboratory has long-standing expertise in studying the water and physical properties of soil, including determining field capacity, the wilting point, critical moisture content, bulk and particle density, porosity, infiltration, hydraulic conductivity and water retention curves (soil moisture retention). It also carries out research on the water requirements of crops, evapotranspiration, irrigation and fertigation regimes, the optimal use of water in agriculture and the effect of water stress on crop growth, development and yield.

The laboratory carries out field and laboratory research comparing and evaluating different irrigation techniques and technologies, including surface, sprinkler, micro-sprinkler and drip irrigation, as well as various fertigation systems and precision water management. Particular attention is paid to developing and applying systems based on monitoring soil moisture, agrometeorological parameters and sensor technologies to support decision-making in irrigation management.

The laboratory has its own greenhouse and demonstration plots, as well as modern research equipment for measuring and monitoring soil moisture, soil water tension, infiltration, permeability and hydraulic conductivity, and equipment for analysing water and fertigation solutions. It applies up-to-date instruments and methods to assess the water status of plants and the efficiency of water and nutrient use under different irrigation techniques, and to monitor the environmental impact of agricultural practices.

In recent years, a significant part of its activities has been directed towards integrating digital technologies into water resources management, including remote sensing, unmanned aerial vehicles, automatic weather stations, soil sensors and systems for the automated management of irrigation and fertigation. A particular focus is on developing and implementing precision irrigation and precision fertigation systems, which optimise the water and nutrient regime of crops through real-time data, decision support models and smart technologies for managing agricultural production.

The laboratory takes an active part in national and international research projects on irrigation, fertigation, land reclamation, water resources management, climate change, agricultural productivity and environmental protection. It also provides expert services, studies, technical reports and documentation, consultations and training for farmers, companies, institutions and organisations in the public and private sectors.