This system was tested in sorghum using two experiments. We present an alternative cost-effective automated irrigation system scalable for a high-throughput and controlled dry-down treatment of plants. Modern facilities that control water availability for each plant remain cost-prohibited to some sections of the research community. Methods that create similar environmental conditions for a large number of genotypes are essential to investigate plant responses to drought in gene discovery studies. The development of high-yielding crops with drought tolerance is necessary to increase food, feed, fiber and fuel production.
