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FERTILIZATION
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Balanced plant nutrition is another
factor to produce high quality sweet fruits. Even the
superior varieties of imported fruit needs balanced
nutrition to maximize production with quality fruits
Functions of Essential Elements
Macronutrients
Primary
a. Nitrogen - vegetative growth (roots, shoots, stem and
chlorophyll)
b. Phosphorous - root development, branching and
tillering.
c. Potassium - induces fruiting; makes fruit sweet,
enhance fruit flavor.
Secondary
a. Calcium - makes fruit sweet and increased fruit
development; for uniform maturity of the fruit.
b. Magnesium - component of green chlorophyll which is
responsible for photosynthesis.
c. Sulfur - enzyme activator; part of amino acids.
d. Micronutrients - zinc, manganese, iron, copper,
molybdenum and boron.
All these micronutrients are essential for growth,
chlorophyll formation, hormone production and
enhancement of fruit color and flavor.
To maximize mixing of NPK and trace element, there are
fertilizer companies which manufacture Triple 14 and
ammonium phosphate (16-20-0). These already have trace
elements as indicated on their sacks.
Orchard owners are also encouraged to have their soil
analyzed by the Bureau of Soils and Water Management
laboratory to determine the soil's pH (acidity).
Acidic soil usually does not have enough calcium, potash
and trace elements. Shortage of these elements will only
make the trees bear fruits with sour or inferior quality
fruits.
If the soil is acidic, the author recommends the
application of agricultural lime following the
recommendation of the soil bureau. Also, regularly apply
organic fertilizer to neutralized acidity and maintain
the soil environment.
For fruiting during dry season without any irrigation,
foliar fertilizer that is high in potassium may be
sprayed on the leaves to produce sweet and big fruits.
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