Simulation of Greenhouse Tomato Crop Transpiration Using Two Theoretical Models

Abstract

Water consumption reduction in greenhouse cultivation is a key objective for growers to optimize resource usage. Accurate estimation of transpiration, enabling growers to adapt water inputs to exact plant requirements, is vital for efficient water management. Various models have been developed to estimate transpiration. The Penman-Monteith and Stanghellini models are two of the most widely used models.
The Penman-Monteith model was originally designed for open-field conditions, while the Stanghellini model was specifically developed for greenhouse environments. In this study, the accuracy of these models in estimating transpiration was evaluated by comparing their estimated values with measured transpiration data. By affecting the VPD and stomatal resistance, temperature directly impacts the rate of transpiration in plants. This research also addresses a significant gap in previous studies by determining the optimal observation height for temperature data, which is essential for accurate modeling of transpiration.
Linear regression analysis was employed to assess the performances of the models. The results show that the Stanghellini model provides more precise estimations of transpiration compared to the Penman-Monteith model under greenhouse conditions. Moreover, using temperatures measured above the top of the plant canopy improves the accuracy of tran- spiration estimations in both models. Enhancing the accuracy of transpiration models in greenhouse conditions is critical for promoting efficient water management practices.