Use of compost and interaction with low- and high-vigor rootstocks to accelerate young
sweet orange tree establishment and enhance productivity

Use of compost and interaction with low- and high-vigor rootstocks to accelerate young sweet orange tree establishment and enhance productivity

Report Date: 02/14/2022
Project: 19-030C   Year: 2022
Category: Horticultural & Management
Author: Ute Albrecht
Sponsor: Citrus Research and Development Foundation

  1. Please state project objectives and what work was done this quarter to address them: Objective. To determine the influence of compost during the first three years of tree establishment on growth, productivity, and root and soil health of citrus trees on rootstocks with different vigor-inducing capacity. The second of the biannual compost applications for year 2 was conducted in November. Monthly leaf flush ratings and soil moisture measurements were conducted; we continue seeing the same trends for higher soil moisture content in the compost plots compared with non-compost plots.  Fibrous root samples were collected for physiological (root respiration) and structural analyses.  Preliminary analysis of soil microbial data indicates some differences in the rhizosphere bacterial composition between rootstocks. In addition, early analysis points to possible differences in the response of the soil microbial community to compost application based on the rootstock.   2. Please state what work is anticipated for next quarter:Flush ratings and soil moisture determination will continue.Fruit yield and fruit quality will be determined.Data analyses will continue.Soil microbial sequence data analysis will continue.      3. Please state budget status (underspend or overspend, and why): Approximately 61% of funds have been spent, which is mostly in accordance with the timeline.   


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