Evapotranspiration and crop coefficient (Kc) were estimated through water balance for coffee crop (cultivar Rubi), irrigated by center pivot. The experiment was carried out at the experimental area of Federal University of Lavras. Randomized block was used as statistical design, with 6 treatment and 3 replicates. The treatment levels were set by water depth applied as percentage of Kc values predefined and used by farmers in the region, established as 60, 80, 100, 120 e 140% of the predefined Kc value for a given period. The experiment included a control (non-irrigated), totalizing 18 plots, being considered in each one 8 effective plants for measurements. According to results obtained for soil water potential, the best treatment levels indicate coffee evapotranspiration of 3.46, 7.14 and 5.41 mm, for periods, B (April 4 to July 31), C (August 1 to October 31) and D (November 1 to December 31) during 2007, respectively. For periods A (January 1 to March 31) and B in 2008, the ETc values were 5.57 and 3.07 mm d-1, respectively, with average of 4.93 mm d-1. The best Kc values found were 1.32, 1.06, 1.61 and 1.25 for periods A, B, C and D, respectively.
sprinkler irrigation; coffee; water balance
