Enter the reference evapotranspiration (mm/day) and the crop factor into the Calculator. The calculator will evaluate the Crop Water Use. 

Crop Water Use Formula

Etc = Eto * Kc

Variables:

  • Etc is the Crop Water Use (mm/day)
  • Eto is the reference evapotranspiration (mm/day)
  • Kc is the crop factor

To calculate Crop Water Use, multiply the reference evapotranspiration by the crop factor.

How to Calculate Crop Water Use?

The following steps outline how to calculate Crop Water Use.


  1. First, determine the reference evapotranspiration (mm/day). 
  2. Next, determine the crop factor. 
  3. Next, gather the formula from above = Etc = Eto * Kc.
  4. Finally, calculate the Crop Water Use.
  5. After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem : 

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

reference evapotranspiration (mm/day) = 284

crop factor = 113

Frequently Asked Questions

What is reference evapotranspiration (Eto) and why is it important in calculating crop water use?

Reference evapotranspiration (Eto) is a measure of the amount of water that would evaporate and transpire from a standardized grass or crop surface. It is important in calculating crop water use because it provides a baseline for understanding the water needs of different crops under various environmental conditions, allowing for more precise irrigation planning.

How is the crop factor (Kc) determined?

The crop factor (Kc) is determined based on the type of crop, its growth stage, and the environmental conditions. It reflects how much water a crop needs in comparison to the reference crop used in calculating reference evapotranspiration. Crop factors are typically derived from extensive research and field studies.

Can the formula for calculating crop water use be used for any type of crop?

Yes, the formula for calculating crop water use can be applied to any type of crop, as long as the appropriate crop factor (Kc) is used. The crop factor varies among different crops and their growth stages, making it versatile for planning the irrigation needs of a wide variety of crops.

Why is it important to accurately calculate crop water use?

Accurately calculating crop water use is crucial for efficient water management in agriculture. It helps in determining the right amount of water needed for crops to grow optimally, without over- or under-watering. This not only conserves water resources but also ensures the health of the crops, leading to better yields and quality.