ORCHARD NUTRITION TO MAXIMIZE CROP QUALITY AND MINIMIZE ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION

Selected orchard nutrition research is reviewed using high density apple orchard planting systems as the model to explore methods of controlling nutrient and water inputs to maximize fruit quality.
Nutrients were examined which included N and P which can adversely affect water quality; Ca which can have a major impact on fruit quality and Zn and B which are deficient in many fruit-growing regions.

Higher plant densities, in conjunction with the potential flexibility possible through fertilization with irrigation water (fertigation) are resulting in increased attention being paid to management of the root zone.
Since root volume per plant is lower in high density planting systems, it is important to develop and maintain optimum soil conditions in the root zone.
At the same time, judicious application of nutrients to the above-ground portion of the tree via foliar sprays will continue to provide opportunities to optimize fruit quality.
The production requirements for orchards, including nutrient additions, will need to be consistent with society’s desire to maintain or improve the quality of soil and water.

III International Symposium on Mineral Nutrition of Deciduous Fruit Trees

G.H. Neilsen, D. Neilsen

high density orchards, apple, Malus domestica Borkh, N, P, Ca, Zn, B, quality, environment

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.1997.448.70