A system and method for crop management uses data of specific varieties, such as the effect of growing degree units (GDU) on the phenological stage and optimal soil moisture percentage (SMP) to predict crop growth, to water the crops, and to manage agricultural systems by suggesting planting dates required to meet harvest goals. For plants growing in irrigation tracts, the system and method may use soil moisture sensors and the phenological stage information to provide water to the plants. In other embodiments, predictions are made of harvest dates for planted varieties and/or planting dates to reach harvest goals. The effect of mulching may be taken into account.
