Nitrogen fertilization of 4 to 7-year-old trees planted in high density

Nitrogen fertilization of 4 to 7-year-old trees planted in high density

Report Date: 04/14/2021
Project: 20-003   Year: 2021
Category: Horticultural & Management
Author: Rhuanito Ferrarezi
Sponsor: Citrus Research and Development Foundation

The purpose of this project is to assess nitrogen (N) fertilization rates for high-density plantings of different scion and rootstock combinations in four commercial citrus growers. The overall approach is to 1) determine the appropriate N rates needed to support tree growth and productivity, 2) compare data obtained with existing UF/IFAS N recommendations, and 3) revise best management practices (BMPs) for N application in young trees planted in high-density plantings affected by Huanglongbing (HLB).

The PhD student and Research Assistant for the project were hired with a short delay due to covid-19, but already started working on the project.

We contacted the grower collaborators participating: IMG Citrus (Brian Randolph), Peace River Citrus (Larry Black Jr.), Agromillora Florida/ Lost Lake Groves (Clay Pedersen), Graves Brothers (David Howard), and scheduled/performed site visits to all locations. The planting densities and variety/scion combinations were chosen, maps generated, experimental units identified with permanent signs, and the current information regarding N fertilization requested to proceed with the treatment applications. We anticiapate ordering the fertilizer by the end of this month to proceed with the May/June fertilization as scheduled. The first tree size data collection will happen in the next quarter. We contacted AgerPoint to potentially collect tree size data using Lidar sensors but cost was prohibitive. The project is on schedule.


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