Resumo

SANTANA-AISPURO, Enrique et al. Effect of the irrigation system on the germination and initial root development of Pinus engelmannii Carrière. Rev. mex. de cienc. forestales [online]. 2026, vol.17, n.94, pp.54-74.  Epub 30-Jun-2026. ISSN 2007-1132.  https://doi.org/10.29298/rmcf.v17i94.1599.

In the production of containerized forest plants, irrigation systems are used that directly influence plant development. It is important to seek alternatives that ensure uniform distribution and efficient use of water. In this study, the water consumption of three irrigation systems was measured, and their effect on the germination and root development of Pinus engelmannii in a nursery was evaluated. The trial included three treatments: micro-sprinkler irrigation, manual irrigation, and subirrigation. Germination was monitored for 36 days, and the initial growth of the root system, as well as water consumption and moisture retention in the substrate, were measured in each system. The variables evaluated were: germination percentage and speed, cumulative germination, peak value, germination value, uniformity coefficient, and root system growth. The root system was analyzed using image analysis techniques with RhizoVision, which calculated the number of roots, root length, absorption surface area, and root volume. Germination rates above 80 % were obtained in all three treatments, with the highest rate observed in the micro-sprinkler system. Plants with subirrigation had greater length, surface area, and volume in the middle region of the container. Water usage in micro-sprinkling was 12 times that of sub-irrigation. The type of irrigation system influenced the germination and root development stage of P. engelmannii. With regard to water use, the subirrigation system was more efficient.

Palavras-chave : Irrigation efficiency; seed emergence; micro-sprinkling; pine; subirrigation; forest nursery.

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