Stone fruit application strategies

Dry applied

Dry applied fertilisers, especially phosphorus should be incorporated within the root zone when planting the orchard

In established orchards, dry-applied fertilisers can be broadcast across the soil surface or banded underneath the leaf canopy.

Fertigation

Fertigation provides nutrients more directly to the active root zone and is a more efficient and precise way of meeting immediate needs. Drip systems provide a limited zone of moisture where roots can thrive. They also ensure better application uniformity for every plant, and allow the right nutrient to be applied at the right time and the right amount, for optimum uptake. Under a fertigation system, it is important to maintain correct nutrient ratios to ensure the tree’s needs are properly met throughout the production period.

Foliar applications

Foliar application is used to address an immediate nutritional need or where soil conditions restrict availability of specific nutrients. Because the cuticles of stone fruit leaves have a relatively higher level of wax than other fruit trees, the use of specialist products formulated with adjuvants is desirable to ensure better absorption of foliar nutrients and to avoid leaf damage.

Fruit sprays

Fruit sprays are used to maximize fruit quality prior to harvesting. A complete coverage of the fruit is essential, especially when applying phosphorus or potassium for fruit colour, or calcium to reduce fruit splitting. Again, the use of properly formulated products is required to avoid fruit damage.