In recent years, citrus has been growing as a fruit tree favored by growers. This has been followed by increasingly stringent requirements for citrus management techniques, with fertilization being a key component. In order to ensure the growth and yield of citrus, we need to take scientific and reasonable fertilization measures according to different factors. In general, citrus fertilization needs to follow the following principles:
Combination of organic and inorganic fertilizers:
During fertilization, organic and inorganic fertilizers need to be combined with each other to ensure a full supply of nutrients.
Combination of slow-acting fertilizer and fast-acting fertilizer:
Both slow-acting and fast-acting fertilizers have their own advantages, so they need to be considered when fertilizing to ensure that citrus gets enough nutrients.
Nitrogen fertilizers in combination with phosphorus, potash and micronutrient fertilizers:
Different nutrients play an irreplaceable role in the growth process of citrus, so they need to be reasonably matched.
Combination of deep application with shallow application and extra-root spraying:
The method of fertilization also needs to be adapted to local conditions, and the combination of deep and shallow application, as well as extra-root spraying methods need to be considered.
Mainly organic fertilizer and slow-acting fertilizer:
In fertilization programs, organic and slow-acting fertilizers are the main sources of nutrients, while inorganic and fast-acting fertilizers are supplements.
Organic fertilizer and slow-acting fertilizer are mainly applied deeply, while inorganic fertilizer and fast-acting fertilizer are supplemented by shallow application and extra-root spraying.
The different types of fertilizer application methods depend on the canopy and soil conditions.
In the specific fertilization process, we need to take appropriate measures according to factors such as citrus variety, rootstock characteristics, phenological period, tree age, tree vigor and fruiting status. For overgrown fruiting trees, nitrogen fertilizer should be controlled, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers should be added, and organic fertilizers should be supplemented, and nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers should be increased for weak trees that have yellowing, and foliar fertilizers should be supplemented at the same time. For young trees, the focus is on growth-promoting and requires more nitrogen and phosphorus and less potassium. Elderly and weak citrus fruits need to reduce yields, restore tree strength, and increase nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and organic fertilizer in a balanced manner.
Soil properties are also important factors to consider in the fertilization process, including soil structure, texture, groundwater level, organic matter content, pH, maturation, nutrient levels, and topography and landform. For sandy soils, a series of measures need to be taken to increase water and fertilizer retention capacity, such as frequent application, thin application, shallow application and extra-root top dressing, while clay soil needs appropriate heavy application, deep application, and combination of deep and shallow applications.
Climate is also an important factor to consider when fertilizing, as temperature, humidity and rain directly affect the root respiration and nutrient uptake capacity of citrus, as well as the decomposition, transformation and microbial activity of soil nutrients. Depending on the climate, we need to apply fertilizer quickly after the rain, dry in the rainy season, and liquid in the dry season.
Economic fertilization is a fertilization method that focuses on economic benefits, that is, the maximum economic benefits are achieved through the lowest fertilizer input. In order to achieve this goal, it is necessary to identify the main obstacles to fertilization and increase yields, and take corresponding measures. For severe symptoms caused by iron deficiency, correction must be carried out, and at the same time, other fertilizer varieties should be used according to the specific situation to supplement the missing elements in time. For example, in the case of alkaline soil, sulfur powder can be used to improve soil pH, or ferrous sulfate and zinc sulfate can be used as foliar fertilizers to improve iron deficiency symptoms.
Finally, it should be noted that fertilization needs to be coordinated with other yield enhancement measures, such as tillage, irrigation, pruning, pest control, etc. In this way, the high-quality and abundant yield of citrus can be comprehensively improved.
Fertilization tips:
Fertilization should not be applied in September, so as not to affect the overwintering of citrus;
When fertilizing, choose the appropriate fertilization hole to prevent root burning;
Deep application of basal fertilizer and shallow application of top dressing;
Deep application in the dry season and shallow application in the rainy season;
Cohesive soil is reapplied, and sandy soil is applied thinly.
These recommendations are based on the growth characteristics of citrus and different environmental conditions, and it is hoped that they will be helpful to citrus growers in the fertilization process.