[Fertigation of apple tree orchard during training . Level and nutrient effects [Malus pumila Mill. - Emilia-Romagna]]
2000
Rombola, A.D. | Zavalloni, C. | Ceccaroli, A. | Mazzanti, F. | Marangoni, B. | Tagliavini, M. (Bologna Univ. (Italy). Dipartimento di Colture Arboree) | Scudellari, D. (Centro Ricerche Produzioni Vegetali (CRPV), Cesena, Forli (Italy))
The present study reports data collected over two years (1997-1998) from a drip irrigated apple orchard subjected to distribution of nutrients (N-P-K-Mg) either by traditional fertilisation (granular and surface applied fertilisers) or by fertigation. The high density apple orchard (cv. Mondial Gala and Fuji on M9) was planted in winter 1996/97 on a loamy soil in the Po Valley (Northern Italy); the experimental design included 5 randomised blocks and each experimental unit was formed by 10 trees. Fertigation was performed to supply the same rate of N-P-K-Mg of traditional fertilisation and at a rate reduced by 50%. Two additional treatments included no K or no P in the water supplied. Results show that fertigation is a profitable technique to promote tree growth and to obtain high productivity since the second year from planting. In cv. Mondial Gala red colour intensity and distribution were ameliorated by fertigation, especially in treatments including N, K and Mg. Phosphorus stimulated a rapid tree growth in both cultivars. Data indicate that fertigation improves the availability of mineral nutrients in soil solution and reduces the total amount of fertilisers, without affecting fruit production
Показать больше [+] Меньше [-]