File(s) under permanent embargo
Precision nitrogen fertigation and irrigation management for improved apple quality
conference contribution
posted on 2023-05-23, 10:14 authored by Nigel SwartsNigel Swarts, Marcus HardieMarcus Hardie, Dugald CloseDugald CloseNitrogen (N) management is a balance to meet tree demands for current seasons’ crop as well as for internal storage for the subsequent season whilst reducing N loss via runoff and deep drainage. Whilst fertigation is commonly practised by apple growers in Australia, research into tree nutrient requirements and therefore fertigation management strategies are limited. In the Huon valley of southern Tasmania, we applied N (Ca(NO3)2) treatments pre- and post-harvest combined with high (4 L/hr), medium (2.3 L/hr) and low (1.6 L/hr) irrigation treatments to 10 year-old ‘Galaxy’ trees grafted on M26 rootstocks. We measured yield, fruit quality attributes and fruit N content. Data from the second season revealed fruit in the low irrigation treatments were significantly smaller (152 g) but firmer, with higher total soluble solids (11.80 Brix). Irrigation treatment had no effect on fruit colour, however fruit background colour decreased significantly with increased current season N application. Fruit N content was not significantly influenced by N application. This study demonstrates the strong linkage between N and irrigation management on the above ground components of orchard production and urges caution for growers implementing pre-harvest fertigation.
Funding
Horticulture Innovation Australia
History
Publication title
Acta HorticulturaeVolume
1130Editors
DS Tustin, BM van HooijdonkPagination
485-489ISSN
0567-7572Department/School
Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA)Publisher
International Society for Horticultural SciencePlace of publication
BelgiumEvent title
XXIX International Horticultural Congress on Horticulture: International Symposia on the Physiology of Perennial Fruit Crops and Production Systems and Mechanisation, Precision Horticulture and RoboticsEvent Venue
Brisbane, AustraliaDate of Event (Start Date)
2014-08-17Date of Event (End Date)
2014-08-22Rights statement
Copyright 2016 ISHSRepository Status
- Restricted