Fertilizer management survey for tropical fruit crops in South Florida.
Li YunCong, Crane J., Boman B., Balerdi C.
Author Affiliation: Tropical Research and Education Center, University of Florida, 18905 SW 280 Street, Homestead, FL 33031, USA.
Proceedings of the Florida State Horticultural Society : 172-176
Abstract : Little is known of growers' fertilizer practices for tropical fruit crops in south Florida, USA. A survey of avocado, Tahiti lime [Citrus latifolia], mango, carambola, lychees [Litchi chinensis], longan, mamey sapote[Pouteria sapota], and papaya [pawpaws] was conducted to obtain background information on current fertilizer practices including rates, methods of application, timing, and perceived information needs. The survey was carried out during summer and autumn of 1998 and the data were compiled and analysed in 1999. Of the 108 surveys mailed, 53 commercial growers responded. Fertilizer practices varied widely among commodities and growers. In most cases, growers use multiple criteria to determine their fertilizer programme, the most common being time of year or crop growth stage and appearance. About a third use the same amount of fertilizer each year. Few growers use soil or leaf analysis as a tool; the reasons given are discussed. NPK application was most common in dry form, but the frequency and amount applied varied among crops and between growers of the same crop. Foliar application is used for most micronutrients, but soil drenching and fertigation are commonly used for Fe fertilizers. A number of growers use compost, sludge or slow release fertilizers.