Detailed Explanation of Key Points of Split Fertilization Technology, More Efficient Fertilization for Fruit Trees

Split fertilization technology refers to a method of dividing the fertilizer needed for the whole year into multiple applications at different ratios according to the fertilizer requirements of crops at different growth stages. It changes the traditional practice of applying a large amount of fertilizer all at once, so that nutrient supply matches the rhythm of crop growth. In the cultivation of fruit trees and many crops, this is a basic and important management measure.

In fruit tree production, split fertilization usually includes several key steps. After fruit harvest in autumn, apply base fertilizer deeply, mainly well-rotted organic fertilizer, to help restore tree vigor; before bud break, apply a bud-promoting fertilizer to promote the growth of new shoots and leaves; before and after flowering, supplement with a pre-flowering fertilizer or post-flowering fertilizer, which helps increase the fruit-setting rate. When the fruit expansion stage arrives, apply another heavy fruit-strengthening fertilizer based mainly on potassium fertilizer and combined with nitrogen and phosphorus; after harvest, a small amount of supplementary fertilizer may also be applied depending on tree vigor.

The benefits of split fertilization are relatively obvious. Applying fertilizer in several doses can reduce leaching and volatilization, improve utilization efficiency, and also avoid root burn or waste caused by applying too much fertilizer at one time. Supplying fertilizer in time at each fertilizer demand peak makes fruit expansion fuller and yield and quality more stable; persisting over the long term also helps nourish the soil and protect the roots.

In actual operation, adhere to applying thin fertilizer frequently and combine it with watering; the topdressing position should be near the outer edge of the tree canopy projection. Young trees and vigorously growing trees should have nitrogen fertilizer appropriately controlled, while trees with a large fruit load or on the weaker side may have the number of topdressings appropriately increased. Soil, climate and varieties differ from place to place, so the specific split fertilization plan should also refer to local planting experience and be flexibly adjusted according to tree performance.