About the Workshop

XIII International Workshop on Sap Flow - "Trees have a Voice too"

Welcome to XIII IWSF 2026

The XIII International Workshop on Sap Flow brings together researchers, scientists, and practitioners from around the world to explore the use of sap flow technologies to determine the transpiration rates of fruit trees and for other plants.

Workshop Theme: "Sap Flow Measurements for Decision-Making"

Our central theme emphasizes the practical applications of sap flow research in making informed decisions across various fields including agriculture, forestry, ecology, and environmental management.

Conference Theme: "Trees have a Voice too"

This evocative theme highlights the importance of listening to what trees and plants tell us through their water transport patterns, helping us understand their physiological needs and responses to environmental conditions.

Workshop Details

Dates: November 22-27, 2026
Location: Montagu, Western Cape, South Africa
Venue: Blecks Training and Conference Centre
Duration: 6 Days

Research Focus Areas

Exploring the latest developments in sap flow science and applications

Thermal Dissipation Methods

Advanced techniques in thermal dissipation probe technology for accurate sap flow measurements in various plant species and environmental conditions.

Heat Pulse Techniques

Innovations in heat pulse velocity methods and their applications in understanding plant water transport mechanisms.

Fruit Tree Applications

Specific applications of sap flow measurements in fruit tree cultivation, irrigation management, and crop yield optimization.

Data Analysis & Modeling

Advanced computational approaches for processing, analyzing, and modeling sap flow data for practical applications.

Water Relations Research

Understanding plant-water relationships through sap flow measurements and their implications for plant physiology and ecology.

Environmental Monitoring

Applications in environmental monitoring, ecosystem health assessment, and climate change impact studies.

Scientific Committee

Leading experts guiding the workshop's scientific program

Dr Muthianzhele Ravuluma

Scientific Committee Member

Dr Phumudzo Tharaga

Scientific Committee Member

Prof Robert Skelton

Scientific Committee Member

Dr Sebinasi Dzikiti

Editor, Scientific Committee

Prof Teemu Hölttä

Scientific Committee Member

Dr Andrew Osihi

Scientific Committee Member

Ms Raesibe Kgaphola

Scientific Committee Member

Dr Theresa Volschenk

Scientific Committee Member

Dr Steve Green

Scientific Committee Member, Tranflanzo

Prof Collin Everson

Scientific Committee Member

Prof John Ji

Scientific Committee Member, University of Forestry

Prof Rafael Poyatos

Scientific Committee Member, CREAF, Barcelona Spain

Prof Benye Xi

Scientific Committee Member, Benjing Forestry University, China

Ms Francesca Regato

Scientific Committee Member, ICT, International, Australia

Invited Keynote Speakers

Distinguished researchers presenting cutting-edge research

Dr. Shinichi Takeuchi

Dr. Shinichi Takeuchi

University of Japan, Japan

Leading researcher in sap flow measurement techniques and plant water relations.

Dr. Andrew Oishi

Dr. Andrew Oishi

USDA, Southern Research Station, Coweta, USA

Expert in forest ecology and sap flow applications in ecosystem research.

Prof. Timu Vesala

Prof. Timu Vesala

University of Helsinki, Finland

Renowned for work in atmospheric physics and plant-atmosphere interactions.

Prof. Collin Everson

Prof. Collin Everson

University of Kwa Zulu Natal, South Africa

Expert in hydrology and water resource management in African ecosystems.

Prof. Benye Shi

Prof. Benye Shi

University of Forestry in China

Leading researcher in forest management and tree physiology in Asian forests.

Dr. Peter Curl

Dr. Peter Curl

ICT International, Australia

Industry expert in sap flow instrumentation and measurement technologies.

Workshop Objectives

Building knowledge and collaboration in sap flow research

Primary Objectives

  • Advance Scientific Knowledge

    Share the latest research findings and methodological innovations in sap flow measurement techniques.

  • Foster Collaboration

    Facilitate networking and collaboration among researchers, practitioners, and industry professionals.

  • Practical Applications

    Explore real-world applications of sap flow research in agriculture, forestry, and environmental management.

  • Knowledge Transfer

    Provide training and education opportunities for early career researchers and practitioners.

  • Global Perspectives

    Address global challenges in water resources, climate change, and sustainable agriculture through sap flow research.

Who Should Attend

  • Researchers in plant physiology and ecology
  • Forest and agricultural scientists
  • Instrumentation specialists
  • Graduate students and postdocs
  • Environmental consultants
  • Water resource managers
  • Agricultural technologists
  • Climate researchers