Autumn basal fertilization for sweet cherries is timely now, and fruit growers should not miss it
When it comes to the key points of autumn basal fertilization, the first thing to emphasize is "early." It is generally carried out in September-October, but early application in September gives the best results. This is because during this period the soil temperature is relatively high, the roots absorb fertilizer over a longer time, and the absorption rate is also fast. Once the fertilization timing is grasped, the application rate must also be increased...
When it comes to the key points of autumn basal fertilization, the first thing to emphasize is "early." It is generally carried out in September-October, but early application in September gives the best results. This is because during this period the soil temperature is relatively high, the roots absorb fertilizer over a longer time, and the absorption rate is also fast.
Once the fertilization timing is grasped, the application rate must also be increased. Agricultural technicians point out that 70% of the annual fertilizer application comes from autumn basal fertilization during this period. It is advisable to apply more high-quality organic fertilizer, such as decomposed soybeans, soybean cake, chicken manure, pig manure, etc., and the amount of organic fertilizer applied per mu should reach more than 3000 kg. If the source of organic fertilizer is insufficient, finished organic fertilizer can be purchased as a substitute. Moreover, nutrient supplementation during the growth of sweet cherries should also be more balanced.
Grasping the timing, type and application rate of autumn basal fertilization is not yet complete success. Only when combined with scientific fertilization methods will the effect be twice the result with half the effort. Han Mingjian, director of the Fruit Tree Station of the Agriculture Bureau of Fushan District, Yantai City, Shandong Province, introduced: "Autumn basal fertilization should mainly use radial trench application. Dig 6-8 radial trenches around the outer edge of the tree canopy, with a trench depth of 20-30 cm. When digging the trenches, make them as numerous and deep as possible, as this helps the roots absorb more nutrients. At the same time, mix the organic fertilizer evenly with the soil as much as possible and keep the soil in close contact with the fertilizer, so that the fertilizer effect can be better exerted."
In addition, agricultural technicians also suggest that after fertilization, fruit growers should cover the fertilizer with soil, tread it firm and water promptly, as this helps combine fertilizer with water and improve fertilizer use efficiency.