Two methods of irrigation management, tensiometry and simplified climatological water balance with Class A pan, were applied in a bean crop, IAC-Carioca cultivar, growing in a Oxisol, irrigated by center pivot under conventional and no tillage systems. The soil water balance, evapotranspiration and bean yield were evaluated. The results showed that, both irrigation management methods are possible to be adopted for farmers or technicians with average level of technology and knowledge. However, the tensiometry offers a better understanding of the real soil water conditions at plant root system. Differences of soil water storage and grain yield between tillage systems were not verified. The tensiometry management method resulted in a higher variations of plant available water when compared to the simplified climatological water balance. The tensiometry management method made possible reduction of 15% of the irrigation water, when compared to the simplified water balance, without affecting the grain yield.
soil water; evapotranspiration; center pivot
