See the takeaways so far from nutrient rate studies being conducted across The Sunshine State by UF/IFAS researchers.
UF/IFAS researchers have been conducting nutrient rate studies all across Florida to revamp nutrient guidelines for Florida citrus growers. This is because “current nutrient management guidelines were developed based on data prior to the spread of HLB, when trees had dense canopies and healthy root systems,” according to a Citrus Industry article. Growers called for updated nutrient recommendations based on HLB-created conditions, and UF/IFAS obliged. See what the takeaways for citrus growers have been thus far.
Key Points from Nutrient Rate Studies
According to the article, “UF/IFAS researchers compared rates varying from 100 pounds/acre to 300 pounds/acre of nitrogen and 0 to 80 pounds/acre of phosphorus,” for oranges, grapefruit, and satsumas, and “They also compared three, five and seven splits of nitrogen application in satsumas.”
Researchers have found that “one size does not fit all.” Takeaways by region include:
Florida Panhandle: “soil phosphorus levels were noted to be in the sufficiency or excess levels in the soil and leaf analysis…This suggests that depending on the test, phosphorus might have to be omitted or reduced in grower nutritional programs. The split application suggested that more frequent application splits work best in promoting nitrogen-use efficiency, confirming earlier observations with healthy citrus trees.”
Central, Southeast, and Southwest Florida: “researchers observed elevated or high phosphorus levels in the soil but low concentrations in the leaf tissues, suggesting limited acquisition. This scenario is expected where there is low pH. The remedy is to apply lime to raise the pH to a desirable range of around 5.8 to 6.5. When the pH is high, it is typically recommended to apply some acid, elemental sulfur or acid-forming fertilizers to lower the pH.”
Griffin Fertilizer is committed to helping both growers and ranchers make sound agronomic and economic decisions in order to maximize the health of their grove and pasture. As a full-service custom dry & liquid fertilizer blender and crop protection product distributor, we will continue our mission to further advance Florida agriculture. For questions -or concerns about your farm or pasture, contact us and one of our team will be in touch.