The Water-Use of Fruit Species Programme explores water use, water relations and modelling water use of fruit tree species. Led by Dr Nicky Taylor, the programme is currently involved in research projects on citrus, apple, avocado, macadamia and pecan water use. This involves quantifying transpiration using sap flow systems and evapotranspiration with micrometeorological methods and the driving variables for water use.

Ecophysiological measurements (leaf and stem water potential, stomatal conductance and photosynthesis) are also conducted to understand the control over transpiration by the tree.Dr Taylor is also interested in the carbon partitioning dynamics in low chill peach cultivars grown in areas with warm springs and collaborates with the University of Stellenbosch, University of KwaZulu-Natal and the CSIR.