Trees continuously consume nutrients from the soil, so over time the soil beneath them becomes depleted. Because of this, the productivity of the garden decreases, and young plants develop worse. Even if the soil was fertilized in the fall, this does not mean that it does not need to be fed in the spring. After all, with melted snow, many useful elements leave, including nitrogen. It is in the spring, during the resumption of active plant growth, that the soil especially needs additional fertilizing.
Spring feeding fruit trees is the most important condition for their rich fruiting. Therefore, with the onset of warm weather, gardeners should take maximum care of fertilizing their garden, otherwise the prospect good harvest it will be very foggy for them.
in spring fruit trees need to be fed with mineral and organic products.
Organic fertilizers
The advantage of organic fertilizers is their availability and environmental friendliness. With regular use of organic fertilizers, the soil becomes looser and absorbs water better.
Compost is rotted plant waste. Its addition promotes better absorption of minerals. It is not advisable to use poorly rotted compost; it may contain weed seeds.
Manure use fresh mullein or horse manure. It should be used with caution due to its high ammonia content, which can harm the plant's rhizomes. To cook liquid composition, 1 kg of manure will require 10 liters of liquid. When adding manure during digging, you will need 10 kg per 1 sq.m.
Bird droppings contains large quantities of nitrogen, which stimulates rapid and balanced plant growth. It must be used carefully, strictly observing the proportions to prevent burns to the rhizome.
In the form of liquid fertilizer for apple trees in the spring, droppings are used in the following proportion: 100 g of droppings/15 liters of liquid. Moreover, the solution is infused for 5-10 days. Dry droppings are used for digging.
Wood ash valuable for its high content of various chemical elements and is an excellent replacement potash fertilizers. Used as soil protection against insects, rot and fungal diseases.
Bone meal It has a high content of nitrogen and calcium and is used to deoxidize the soil. Currently, bone meal can be purchased in specialized stores.
Mineral fertilizers
There is a widespread belief among gardeners that such fertilizers can be harmful to both human health and the plant. But with rational use mineral fertilizers and strict adherence to dosages, this risk is reduced to zero, and the benefits are enormous. The use of mineral fertilizers is most desirable for soils poor in microelements and depleted.
Nitrogen fertilizers(ammonium sulfate, urea, ammonium nitrate). They promote rapid growth and have a positive effect on the quality and volume of the harvest. Sandy soils need such fertilizing more.
Phosphorus fertilizers(superphosphate, phosphate rock). They help strengthen and grow the root system. They are introduced into the soil and buried closer to the roots. Such fertilizers are not washed out of the soil and remain in it for a long time.
Potash fertilizers(potassium sulfate). They increase the cold resistance and drought tolerance of plants, and help fruit crops produce sugar. Potassium has a positive effect on the formation and growth of lateral shoots. In spring, it is especially necessary for young trees. But it is not recommended to use it in its pure form. It is better when it is part of mixtures, for example, potassium salt or potassium magnesium. Wood ash contains a lot of potassium. In peat or sandy soils potassium accumulates worse than in chernozems.
Microfertilizers contain the most essential microelements for plants: boron, zinc, iron, manganese, sulfur, copper, manganese).
It is best to fertilize fruit trees in the third year of cultivation. By this point, the crown has grown sufficiently, shading the tree trunk, and green manure does not cope with the task. Fruit-bearing trees are fertilized several times a season. This increases productivity well and replenishes the supply of nutrients in the soil.
First feeding of fruit trees
Experts advise feeding fruit trees for the first time at the very beginning of spring. You shouldn't wait for all the snow to melt, but the ground should thaw a little.
To feed during this period, use nitrogen-containing mineral fertilizers (ammonium nitrate, urea).
Scatter them around each trunk on the snow, which, when melting, will deliver nitrogen and other important chemical elements to the root system of fruit trees and shrubs. Moreover, fertilizers must be applied at a distance of approximately 50-60 cm from the trunk with mandatory loosening of the soil.
When carrying out such fertilizing, it is important not to overdo it, as excess nitrogen will harm the crop. Having received an extra portion of this element, the tree will begin to actively develop its crown and root system, which will leave very little energy for setting and good development of fruits. How to calculate the amount of feeding? Very simple - for one young tree use approximately 40 g, for an adult - about 100 g.
If you are a follower organic fertilizers, wait until the ground thaws completely. Prepare a nutrient solution by adding 300 g of urea, 1.5 liters of litter or 4 liters of manure to a bucket of water. As a guide: use 3-4 liters of fertilizer per tree.
Second feeding of fruit trees
During the period of flowering and leaf formation, fruit trees especially need potassium and phosphorus. Potassium is necessary for the formation of new shoots, increasing sugar levels in fruits, as well as for the resistance of crops to diseases and adverse conditions. external factors. Phosphorus helps strengthen the root system of trees.
Experienced gardeners say that it is better not to purchase mineral fertilizers containing both substances at once, but rather to add them to the soil separately. First, phosphorus, called “superphosphate” - 60 g per mature tree. A little later, potassium (potassium salt, potassium magnesium, potassium sulfate, ash) - 20 g per tree.
A special mixture is popular among Ural gardeners, which is prepared in a large barrel. The suggested volume of fertilizer is designed for 3 trees:
. 400 g potassium sulfate
. 0.5 kg superphosphate
. 2.5 liters of bird droppings (can be replaced with 250 g of urea or 2 bottles of the drug “Effekton”)
. 100 liters of water
All ingredients must be diluted in water and allowed to brew for a week. Then fertilize the trees with the infused mixture in the root zone (50-60 cm from the trunk). One fruiting apple tree requires approximately 5 buckets of fertilizer.
Third and fourth feedings
It is very important to feed fruit trees in the spring after flowering for the full development of fruits. Organic is best during this period. Of the organic fertilizers, compost is especially popular among gardeners. They water the root zone of flowering plants. garden plants, having previously diluted with water.
During the period of development of the set fruits, it is advisable to once again feed the garden crops with organic matter (mullein, compost, vermicompost). If this is not possible, then purchase a special mineral mixture with a slight predominance of nitrogen. Fertilizer is either embedded in the ground or mixed with mulch.
Foliar feeding of fruit trees
In spring, you can fertilize your garden not only by enriching the soil, but also by foliar methods. A weak solution is prepared from the feeding mixture and the green crown is sprayed with it.
Leaves absorb substances well, the tree receives faster necessary elements. This method is considered an emergency aid for plants. It is often used to stimulate shoot growth or if the root system or trunk is damaged and cannot fully utilize nutrition from the soil.
For foliar feeding, you can use both organic matter and mineral mixtures. Spraying trees with microfertilizers has a good effect. For example, boron promotes more abundant flowering, zinc serves as a disease prevention, manganese increases the sugar content in fruits and increases yield.
To ensure that there is enough calcium in the fruits, fruit trees need to be sprayed in early spring. Bordeaux mixture(4%), at the same time this will serve as protection against diseases and insect attacks.
When foliar fertilizer is used, very weak concentrations of solutions are used so as not to cause burns to leaves and wood.
To spray the crowns of pear or apple trees, you can use a solution of manganese sulfate or zinc sulfate at the rate of 0.2 g per liter of water. If two microelements are used at once, their dosage is halved.
Stone fruits (cherry, plum, apricot, cherry plum) will grow and bear fruit better if in the spring they are treated with urea diluted at the rate of 50 g per 10 liters of water. Spraying is repeated a couple of times at intervals of a week.
The result will be better if you use this method alternating with classic root feeding. It is the soil that is able to retain the substances necessary for fruit crops longer.
You should not fertilize young one-year-old seedlings. It is better to start fertilizing them from the second year after planting.
Young fruit trees are fed in the spring with both organic and mineral preparations.
Organic fertilizers (urea, manure) are diluted with water in the following proportion: 300 g of urea per 10 liters of water or 4 liters of liquid manure. One young tree should receive about 5 liters of liquid fertilizer. For a tree that has been growing for less than 5 years, it is enough to add about 20 kg of humus to the root zone.
Any liquid fertilizer is applied to moist soil, otherwise it can burn the roots of the plant.
In the first few years, the effect of applying fertilizers to trees is subtle. It becomes more pronounced as fruiting approaches.
For full growth and fruiting, adult fruit-bearing apple trees must be fertilized at least three times in the spring.
Features of feeding an apple tree
In spring, a fruit-bearing apple tree needs organic and mineral feeding.
An apple tree between 5 and 9 years old needs about 30 kg of humus; an apple tree over 9 years old needs at least 50 kg of fertilizer.
Slurry is diluted in a ratio of 1:5. A tree that has not reached 8 years old needs 30 liters of such feeding; a tree older than 8 years needs about 50 liters.
The application of mineral fertilizers has a positive effect on the apple tree: ammonium nitrate, potassium sulfate, superphosphate, magnesium sulfate. Their rate is calculated according to the instructions in accordance with the age of the tree.
Read more about feeding apple trees in THIS article.
Features of feeding pears
Spring feeding of pears is similar to apple feeding, but has some differences.
Humus is necessary for pears large quantities. It is mixed with the soil in the spring during digging. A three-year-old tree needs about 20 kg of humus, and every year its amount is increased by 10 kg. After 11 years, the trees are fed once every 2 years, adding 100 kg of fertilizer.
In the spring, the fruiting pear is sprayed with a weak urea solution. The first time at the end of the flowering period, the second time is repeated after 10-15 days.
Pear responds well to spring feeding mineral solutions: superphosphate, ammonium nitrate, potassium chloride.
Features of apricot feeding
Apricots are fed several times throughout the spring. First, nitrogen-containing fertilizers. Then after flowering with organic matter. Most often they use urea, saltpeter, slurry, chicken droppings.
Features of feeding plums and cherry plums
Humus for plums and cherry plums is added 10 kg each if the tree is up to 6 years old and 20 kg each if the tree is older than 6 years old.
Plum prefers alkaline soil, so fluff lime or wood ash is often added to fertilizers for it.
Features of fertilizing cherries
For trees up to 4-5 years old, humus is added every spring. Scatter it around the trunk, with a radius of about 0.5 m, in a layer of about 4 cm. For trees older than 5 years, one fertilizing with humus is enough for 3 years.
Urea and ammonium nitrate should be fed to trees in early spring and late May.
There are some features in feeding garden plants in the spring that every gardener must know:
. Water acts as a carrier of chemicals from fertilizer to the roots of a tree or bush, so after applying dry fertilizer, thorough watering is necessary.
. Liquid fertilizer should not be applied to dry soil to avoid burns on the roots.
. Horticultural crops no need to fertilize during the first year after planting.
. It is better to fertilize in the evening.
. When feeding, it is important to take into account that the root system of an adult tree extends beyond the boundaries of its crown by about 50 cm.
Important! An excess of nutrients is just as dangerous as a lack of them. Therefore, observe moderation in everything, and your fruit trees will thank you for your care with a generous harvest.
When feeding trees, two things must be taken into account: important aspects: soil growing conditions and their age. In the first 3-4 years, there is no need to fertilize if a sufficient amount of substrate was added when planting the tree. It is undesirable to be too zealous with feeding, since oversaturation nutrients entails a decrease in fertility.
Based on the type of soil, it is determined which fertilizers for fruit trees and in what quantities will be most effective. For example, chernozem contains a sufficient amount of nitrogen, so treatment with nitrogen fertilizers is not recommended. But with sandy and clay soils the situation is the opposite.
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Fertilizing the garden in spring is very important element fruit tree care. Even if your garden grows on fertile soils, he more or less needs additional feeding.
For a garden to grow and bear fruit, energy is needed. It enters the tissue of trees and shrubs in the form of various compounds of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and many trace elements. During the peto (growing season) a lot of these so-called biogenic elements are carried out with leaves and fruits and it is necessary to replenish their supply. Therefore, various fertilizers should be applied annually.
It is better to do this in early spring, before the buds open and the plants begin to function.
Feeding fruit trees in spring
Fertilizing is a very important factor in the life of young fruit trees; urine, slurry, bird and/or cow droppings are well suited for this. When we add slurry and urine, we dilute it with 5-6 parts, and feces and bird droppings with 10-12 parts of water, using one bucket per 1 m2. Mineral fertilizers can be applied in two types: liquid and dry, this is at your discretion, but do not forget if you apply fertilizers in dry form, do not forget to water the trees after the procedures. Early spring When you dig up your fruit trees, you need to add 2/3 of your fertilizer. In summer you can fertilize, but only those trees that clearly need it (they look weak compared to others). We will carry out the second feeding during the period of increased shoot growth, and a month after that we will do the third.
Preference should be given to spring feeding of the garden because the applied nutrients are not bound by the soil and are not consumed by weeds, but enter directly into the body of fruit trees and berry bushes through the roots.
When the soil dries, all work in the garden should be aimed at creating favorable conditions flowering.
In the spring, the tree trunks of fruit trees are first fertilized with mineral fertilizers, mainly nitrogen, provided that organic, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers are added in the fall. If the garden was not fertilized in the fall, in April it is necessary to use complex mineral fertilizers containing three elements necessary for good plant development - nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
For young gardens, the following fertilizer composition is recommended: 20 g of urea, 30 g of granulated superphosphate, 15 g of potassium chloride per square meter. m. If the soil is poor, then the doses of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers can be doubled. Nitrogen fertilizers stimulate the growth of green mass, phosphorus is responsible for the development and strengthening of the root system, and potassium will ensure the formation of flowers and fruits.
When does garden feeding begin in spring?
They begin fertilizing in March - early April: fertilizers, along with melting snow, are absorbed into the soil and easily reach the root system during the awakening period orchard.
Fertilizers are applied to tree-trunk circles with a diameter of 1.5 m, evenly scattering 1-2 handfuls (30-40 g) of nitroammofoska granules or other complex fertilizer under bushes and young trees, and for mature trees - 3-5 handfuls throughout the entire crown projection. Then, using a garden fork or shovel, they are embedded in the soil to a depth of 10-12 cm over the entire tree trunk area. The shovel and fork are positioned with the edge towards the trunk, along the roots extending from the trunk.
For the first five years, fertilizers are applied to the tree trunk. Then the application zone is expanded, scattering them around the tree along the projection of the crown. Fertilizers are incorporated into the soil so as not to damage the roots: shallower near the trunk, deeper at the periphery.
Both dry and liquid mineral fertilizers, if they are not applied in the snow, require well-moistened soil - the root system of plants is capable of absorbing only nutrients dissolved in water. It is also advisable to spray the plants generously to avoid burns. Feeding should be done in the evening or in rainy, cloudy weather. 
In the spring-summer period it is necessary to provide plants high level nutrition with all the necessary elements, and especially nitrogen, to increase flowering activity, fruit set, rapid shoot growth, crop formation and fruit buds. It must be remembered that the flowering phase and the initial growth of shoots largely depend on the nutrient reserves available in the plant.
One type of feeding can be called ordinary organic mulch (peat, manure, crushed bark, rotted leaves, straw), which, when decomposed, increases the fertile layer of soil under the plant. The mulch thickness should be at least 10-12 cm around the entire perimeter of the crown. This fertilizing will be especially effective if mineral fertilizers are added to it. Mulching will help retain moisture in the soil, control weed growth and maintain temperature regime soils of the trunk circle.
In addition to applying fertilizers to the soil, foliar feeding is often used in the garden - spraying fruit crops a solution of mineral fertilizers and growth regulators. For example, a 0.2 percent urea solution (2 g per 1 liter of water) is used to spray trees. During the flowering of fruit trees and berry bushes, you can dissolve a little honey in water and spray the trees to attract bees that pollinate the flowers; the same can be done when growing cucumbers in open ground or vegetables in a greenhouse.
Spring fertilizing of the garden with nitrogen priority is one of the most important works gardener in April and during the flowering of trees in May. Then it smoothly transitions into summer feeding of fruit trees, where the main elements during the period of crop formation will be phosphorus and potassium.
Annual feeding of fruit trees throughout vegetative period will ensure receipt high yields. From early spring, the awakening of the garden is noticeable: the buds come to life a little, their tops are covered with whitish fibers. The initial growth of shoots and subsequent flowering occurs due to the use of nutrients - substances accumulated by fruit trees during last year's growing season. To ensure further growth of shoots and roots and reduce the fall of ovaries, trees should be fed with easily soluble nitrogen fertilizers, which improve the growth of all parts of the tree. Fertilizer dressings are made from slurry in a ratio of (1:2), mullein (1:5) and bird droppings (1:10). Liquid solutions of organic and nitrogen fertilizers are applied into grooves 8-10 cm deep around the crown. Then the furrows are covered with earth, the soil is dug up, harrowed with a rake, and mulched. When trees are 10-15 years old, they consume 6 to 10 buckets of fertilizer solution.
In young trees, the roots spread within the trunk circle. As the crown grows, the area of the trunk circle increases by approximately one and a half times the diameter of the crown. This means that the grooves for liquid fertilizer will extend beyond the crown projection, where the main suction roots are concentrated.
Digging furrows saturated with fertilizers brings nutrients closer to the roots, harrowing gives them air, and mulch slows down the evaporation of moisture. To avoid damage to the roots when digging after applying fertilizer (fertilizer solution), you should not use a shovel. It is better to dig with a pitchfork without turning the formation, without breaking the coma. When digging with a pitchfork, the roots are also damaged (torn), but less so. It’s even better to loosen the soil with hoes instead of digging. If the soil in the furrows is dry before applying the nutrient solution, it is recommended to first moisten it with water and then apply the nutrient solution.
Spring feeding of pome trees is carried out to a depth of 8-10 cm, stone fruit trees - 5-7 cm. This is explained by the depth of the nutrient roots.
The growth of trees and shrubs and their fertility depend primarily on their nutrition. It is important that they have a constant supply of the following elements: calcium, carbon, potassium, nitrogen, phosphorus, iodine, magnesium, sodium and a number of other minerals. Trees are fertilized periodically for this purpose.
Correct application of fertilizers requires knowledge of soil characteristics: mechanical composition, environmental reaction, degree of fertility, age of plantings, etc.
1 Types of fertilizers
Substances that increase soil fertility are classified in various ways. The most common classification is as follows:
- by origin: organic and mineral fertilizers;
- by method of application: fertilizing, pre-sowing, surface, subsoil;
- by feeding method: foliar, root feeding.
Let's look at some of them. Organic include: bird droppings, manure, sawdust, compost, peat. They improve soil structure, water and air regimes. Thanks to them, the earth is enriched with nutrients and humus. This type of fertilizer is more popular because it is natural and easily accessible.
A common organic substance is manure containing copper, copper boron, cobalt, molybdenum, and manganese. The advantage of poultry manure is its higher nutrient content and cost-effectiveness.
Minerals are required by the soil to replenish it with nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. Any plant at every stage of life requires the necessary amount of these elements. For the winter, the trees need to be fed with potassium, which will prepare the plant for the upcoming frosts. In spring and autumn, during the period of active growth, nitrogen will be added to the soil, and phosphorus will be added to the soil during the germination stage.
1.1 Feeding fruit trees
The soil where fruit trees grow, especially those in the fruiting phase, becomes “poorer” over time. Therefore, all gardening specialists replenish its supplies. Fruit feeding is carried out in two ways: mineral/organic. Often, amateur gardeners have a question: “What is the best way to fertilize fruit trees?” It is most advisable to feed plantings with organic matter, which contains the entire list of necessary substances, improves the condition land plot, its looseness makes the soil accessible to air penetration.
Minerals will enrich the plant with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The main supplier of nitrogen is: ammonium nitrate, urea or urea; phosphorus - superphosphate, potassium - potassium salt. Fertilizers are applied in two doses, in autumn and spring. In spring, fruit trees require more nitrogen compounds, which cause their increased growth. Approximate dose – 20-30 g. per 1 sq. m of soil, when it is significantly depleted, the dose increases. And you need to apply phosphate elements, substances containing potassium, under fruit trees in the fall, when they are preparing for winter.
It is in autumn period more fertilizers are applied. Typically, organic compounds are scattered in a random layered circle, and then dug up onto the floor of a shovel bayonet (20-30 cm deep). It is better to give preference to well-rotted manure. The amount of fertilizer depends on the size of the tree. Most often, a bucket is enough, the standard dosage is for 1 square. m layered circle 1-1.5 buckets of manure or compost. It is necessary to make a groove along the perimeter of the crown projection, 30 cm deep. Half the dose of the autumn norm of nutrients is scattered into it in a circle.
When choosing superphosphate, half a glass is enough. After completing these steps, mix the fertilizer with the soil. Place the rest on top, and again the top layer is mixed with the soil. Applying nutrients in this sequential manner will allow them to be evenly distributed without burning the plant's roots.
In addition to the basic procedures for feeding fruit trees, experts highlight the effective use of fertilizing. These are fast-acting substances. These measures are necessary if for some reason you did not fertilize your orchard in the fall. You need to prepare slurry. A third of the manure is placed in a large barrel and filled with water. For several days, while the solution is infused, it should be thoroughly mixed. Then dilute the concentrated liquid with water five times, if you are using chicken manure - 10 times. Pour the solution into the hole around the tree.
In addition to fertilizing with organic matter, you can use minerals: ammonium nitrate, nitrogen fertilizers. 1 tbsp. The spoon is diluted into a bucket of water and poured into the tree trunk circle in the same way. At the end, it is advisable to water the plant so that all substances are evenly distributed throughout the root system.
Foliar feeding and foliar feeding are also effective. It is best to take nitrogen fertilizer urea. In the spring, spray the solution on the leaves of trees (about 30 grams per bucket of water). In August, for better bud formation, next year You can use superphosphate. About 100-150 gr. a substance containing phosphate is dissolved in a bucket of water, and then sprayed over the external organs of the plant. Spraying is done in cloudy weather or in the evening, when the sun is no longer shining.
1.2 How and with what to fertilize fruit trees correctly (video)
1.3 Fertilizer of coniferous trees
Various coniferous trees are gaining the most popularity for decorating front facades. Only healthy plants that give noticeable growth and receive constant nutrition look more beautiful. In order to properly organize fertilizing procedures, you need to know what fertilizers for coniferous trees worth applying. For example, ordinary garden mixtures or complex fertilizers are not suitable for evergreen plants. Manure is even worse. They are aimed at intensive growth, which in conifers ends in yellowing and even death of some specimens.
In this case, it is better to produce the nutrients yourself, but to purchase them in specialized stores. When purchasing this product, you should pay attention to its composition. When choosing a fertilizer for conifers, the presence of magnesium is a prerequisite. He - component chlorophyll molecules, takes active participation in photosynthesis. According to experts, minerals should be used to feed evergreens; rotted compost and vermicompost, which is the result of processing worms, should be used as organic matter.
Coniferous trees and shrubs are fed twice per season. This is done for the first time during a period of increased growth, i.e. in May. The second time - at the end of summer. If you fertilize too late, the emerging growth will not have time to mature before the onset of cold weather. In order for the roots to quickly absorb the added elements, it is advisable to use liquid types feeding. To ensure long-lasting action, granules are used. Their effect is observed after a quarter or six months.
Ready-made liquid fertilizers should be diluted to the required concentration, as indicated in the instructions. The liquid is poured into holes previously made around the perimeter of the crown. Then they are covered with earth. The granules are sprinkled evenly over the surface of the tree trunk circle and mixed with the soil using a hoe while digging. Compost and humus are added in a similar way.
1.4 Feeding the money tree
Money tree or Crassula is not a whimsical plant. Feeding it is not difficult. Fertilization procedures are carried out only after watering. It is recommended to feed in the spring-summer period (April-August). Optimally – once a month. For money tree additives are used for:
- succulents;
- cacti,
- humisol GUMI.
The rest of the time they feed less often, the fertilizer concentration is diluted 1.5-2 times.
2 How to fertilize trees in autumn?
Fertilizing plants in the fall is a priority issue, since this period for feeding is the most important time. Fertilization with useful compounds is carried out until the end of September. Those interested in what fertilizers to apply in the fall should choose minerals. An integrated method will show the best effect. Exclusively root feeding is used.
If the soil is sandy loam or sandy, more fertilizer will be needed. For 8-year-old trees, 30 kg of humus is applied, for crops 9 years of age and older - 50 kg. The fertilizer is placed in the soil to a depth of 20 cm. Complex mineral fertilizers are very convenient to use. For an orchard we recommend:
- Orchard;
- Universal;
- Kemira.
When using them, follow the instructions on the package exactly.
With the right and timely fertilization Fruit crops have been pampering us with their harvest for a long time. How can you properly fertilize plants with the least amount of effort and time?
At each dacha there is an area set aside for a garden, in which apple trees, pears, cherries, cherries, apricots, and peaches are necessarily grown. For normal development and timely entry into fruiting, fruit trees need nutrients that enter the root system from the soil.
The types and doses of fertilizers applied to trees depend on many factors, including:
- the type and natural fertility of the soil, its physical condition;
- age of the fruit crop;
- climatic conditions.
The correct use of organic and mineral fertilizers will not only provide fruit crops with the necessary nutrients, but will also significantly improve the physical condition of the soil:
- soil moisture capacity will improve;
- its breathability will increase;
- the soil will become looser.
On fertile soils, organic fertilizers can be applied after 1-2 years, but in no case should you switch to fertilizing with mineral fertilizers only. Most of them increase soil acidity. At the same time, the composition of soil microflora deteriorates, which negatively affects the development and formation of fruiting.
How to feed a young garden
Before the first fruiting, the garden is considered young and fertilizing it does not require a significant investment of time. When planting a garden Usually rotted manure, humus or mature compost is added to the soil; the seedlings are not fertilized the next year. On depleted soils, seed and stone fruit crops begin to be fed from the first year of planting in a permanent place.
In March 1-1.5 buckets of organic matter (humus, compost, peat) are scattered in the trunk circles of 2-3-year-old trees (in 1-2 years of growth). Organic fertilizer is scattered around a circle with a diameter of 1-2 m and dug to a depth of 12-15 cm or half a spade bayonet.
Early June When increased growth of shoots begins, young seedlings are fed with mineral fertilizers. During this period, it is important for them to have all the basic nutrients in the soil, so it is better to add nitroammophoska, nitrophoska or a mixture of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers to the tree trunk circle.
In order for fertilizers to reach the root system of fruit crops faster and more evenly, a groove 5-10 cm deep can be made along the perimeter of the tree trunk circle and full fertilizer can be sprinkled on its bottom at the rate of 20-40 g/linear meter. Then the groove is covered with earth and watered along with the soil in the tree-trunk circle.
in autumn(before the leaves fall) the seedlings are fed again. Only phosphorus-potassium fertilizers are applied to the ditch, which will have a positive effect on the maturation of shoots, which will help them survive harsh winter weather. Norm phosphate fertilizers is 10-20, and potassium - 15-30 g/linear m.
From 3-4 years of age simultaneously with organic fertilizers For autumn digging, phosphorus-potassium fertilizers are applied, the dose of which is 90-100 and 30-50 g per tree, respectively. In the spring, without going beyond the diameter of the crown, enclose the tree trunk circle along the edge with a roller and scatter 100-150 g of ammonium nitrate. The fertilizer is mixed with a rake into the top layer of soil and filled with water.
We feed fruit-bearing trees
As the seedlings grow, the tree crown increases annually by approximately 0.5-0.6 m, and the root system grows. Starting from 3-4 years and up to 10-12 years of age, the amount of organic fertilizers per tree is increased by 1 bucket annually. There is a need for additional application of mineral fertilizers.
From the age of 4-5 years, fruit trees begin to produce fruit. From now on, you need to be very careful about applying fertilizers. If a tree that has begun to bear fruit has an annual growth of young shoots of less than 20 cm, it means that it is on a “starvation ration” and in order to plant a good harvest it must be provided with nutrients.
By this time, the root system of fruit crops had already grown in the soil at a sufficient depth. Therefore, on fertile soils it is now enough to add organic matter (manure, humus, compost, bird droppings, etc.) once every 2-3 years, as usual, in the fall for digging. Poor soils still require an annual application of organic matter at the rate of 0.5 buckets of organic fertilizer per year of tree life. That is, for a 6- or 8-year-old tree in the fall, 3 and 4 buckets of organic matter are added into the tree trunk circle for digging, respectively. Phosphorus-potassium fertilizers are added.
By following all the rules for applying fertilizers, you can easily grow a large garden of fruit trees and get a rich harvest from them.
The main purpose of fertilizers is to make fruiting regular and abundant from year to year. After all, after the harvest period there is a lull; trees and shrubs do not produce as much fruit as gardeners would like. In addition, nutritional and taste qualities fruits This occurs due to soil depletion. The duration of lean or low-yield periods is 2–3 years. This is quite a lot for farms. Therefore, it is recommended to use various fertilizers for fruit trees.
Types of fertilizers for feeding fruit trees
The type of fertilizer and its amount depends on the plant variety, soil composition, and time of year. There are special agronomic tables for professional plant care in certain regions. Using them you can calculate dosages for each variety of fruit trees.
For amateur gardeners, the basic rules for using fertilizers will be enough: when to apply, how much and what kind of fertilizers.
The most important and necessary elements for plants are potassium, nitrogen, phosphorus, vitamins. Fertilizers are divided into mineral and organic, organic-mineral, bacterial, and microfertilizers. The most commonly used are mineral and organic. Both are necessary for fruit-bearing trees and shrubs at certain times of the year.
Organic
Organic fertilizers are considered the most environmentally friendly. If it is possible to regularly use bird droppings, cattle manure, compost, peat, then you should definitely use it. Fertilizing with organic fertilizers is carried out 3–4 times during the fruiting season.
Organic matter also contains trace elements such as nitrogen, calcium and potassium. But their quantity is not enough for full growth and fruiting. Therefore, organic fertilizers are often mixed with mineral ones.
The advantage of organic additives is that they contain bacteria that have a positive effect on the composition of the soil.
Mineral
Mineral fertilizers are:
- potassium;
- nitrogen;
- phosphorus.
Nitrogen promotes the formation of leaves and new shoots, therefore there will be more oxygen in the wood tissues, which will have a positive effect on the fruiting of trees.
Phosphorus increases disease resistance, makes fruit plants more resistant to climate and weather conditions, as well as exposure to pests. A kind of immunomodulator for trees.
Potassium forms a powerful root system and participates in the process of synthesis of chemical elements in fruits. In other words, the taste of fruit directly depends on the presence of potassium in the soil.
Feeding fruit trees and shrubs works according to the principle - it is better to underfeed a little than to overfeed. This is especially true for young seedlings.
Fertilizers for fruit and berry plants should be applied at the roots and on the foliage., that is, to produce root and foliar feeding.
As for organic matter, it must be added to warm time year. Better in autumn or in the spring. The poorer the soil, the more often fertilizing is required - at least once a year. For young plants, a gradual increase in substances is desirable. For example - in the first year do not feed, in the second - 1/3 required quantity, the third - do not feed, the fourth - 1/2 dosage. And so on.
Potassium is needed by fruit and berry plants depending on the period of development. At the stage of formation of the root system, the application of potassium fertilizers is mandatory.
At the stage of formation and ripening of fruits, nitrogen fertilizers should not be applied, as they promote the growth of branches and leaves, which means there will be insufficient nutrients for the fruits
Nitrogen is best used in a mixture with other trace elements - for example, potassium. The ratio of substances is such that it does not interfere with the ripening of fruits, but at the same time strengthens the plant. And potassium performs the function of feeding trees and shrubs.
Where to apply fertilizer
Feeding of fruit trees is carried out in the area around the trunk circle. To do this, dig a groove across the width of the crown and pour the prepared mixture into it. For mature trees, 2–3 ditches should be dug; for young seedlings with a crown radius of 1–2 m, 1 is sufficient. Potassium fertilizers must be diluted with water.
Organic fertilizers are applied as follows: dig up the tree trunk circle at a distance of 50 cm from the trunk, along the perimeter of the crown. Depth – 40 cm. Apply a ready-made mixture of mineral or organic fertilizers diluted with water. For an adult plant, liquid with nutrients is diluted in containers with water. Approximately 3 – 4 buckets of the mixture are consumed for each tree.
Rules for applying mineral fertilizers
- on sandy soils in spring or summer during flowering, because the substance is quickly washed into the lower layers of the soil;
- on clay ones - in the fall after harvesting.
Nitrogen fertilizers are more effective in combination with potassium and phosphorus. Signs of a lack of nitrogen in the soil are slow growth of young branches and impaired chlorophyll production. The leaves on the trees in the garden will be pale or yellow-green.
It is better to apply phosphorus fertilizers to the soil in the fall, since phosphorus is poorly soluble in water and it takes a long time for plants to absorb it. It is necessary to apply to the depth of the roots with the obligatory sealing with a layer of soil.
On clay soil, fertilizer is applied once a year in autumn or spring. Better - once every three years. If applied together with manure, then the dosage must be reduced so as not to damage the root system.
Phosphorus deficiency can be determined by the color of the foliage - it turns red or purple.
The most commonly used potassium fertilizers are potassium chloride and potassium sulfate. The choice depends on the type of soil. If the reaction is acidic, add potassium chloride. Sulfate is more applicable in greenhouses.
On gray soils, potassium fertilizers are not used, or are applied in minimal doses
Potash substances are used in autumn and spring to ensure frost resistance of trees and shrubs. It should be remembered that not all shrubs grow well in chlorine soils. Therefore, it is necessary to observe the dosage of potash fertilizers.
Foliar feeding
Produced by spraying leaves. Foliar feeding garden trees and shrubs in the summer saturate the plants faster and more efficiently, so all nutrient mixtures must be diluted with water. It is best to use ready-made formulations for these purposes.
Both organic and inorganic fertilizers are used for the foliar method:
- zinc;
- manganese;
- urea;
- copper sulfate;
- phosphorus;
- potash fertilizers.
Video: how to get big harvest apples using foliar feeding
Foliar feeding of trees in the fall protects the plant from pests and increases survival in winter period. Fertilizers for fruit trees using the foliar method should have a weaker composition so as not to damage the foliage.
Schedule and organization of plant feeding
You can start adding soil amendments in the spring, immediately after the snow melts. Spring fertilizing is more necessary for plants, and autumn fertilizing is more necessary to improve the soil composition.
Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium chloride are suitable for the first application.
Top dressing fruit trees in summer it is produced by potassium sulfate, nitrogen and organic fertilizers. The foliar method is also used.
In autumn, potassium and phosphorus are most important. At the same time, the trees are prepared for winter and fertilizer is applied to the soil.
Fertilizer calculation
When using ready-made solutions in combination with organic mixtures, the dosage is halved
General rules:
- the concentration of fertilizers for young seedlings needs to be reduced;
- using ash, it is not necessary to apply microfertilizers;
- periodically it is necessary to reduce the acidity of the soil with slaked lime;
- If fruit trees and shrubs have been pruned, then the dosage is increased for rapid shoot growth.
Calculation and timing of fertilizing using the example of an apple tree
In the spring, before flowering, nitrogenous fertilizers are applied to the digging under the tree. This could be manure, compost or droppings. You can use ammonium nitrate or urea.
The next stage is flowering. Potassium, phosphorus and organic - litter or manure. Total about 35 buckets per tree.
Fruit ovary – potassium. During this period, spraying with ash or urea helps.
Ripening fruits and berries - potash fertilizers.
After harvesting - phosphorus, humus.
Typical feeding of fruit and berry plants
For use in the garden, you can take one-component additives and dilute them according to the instructions. At the same time, add those substances that are most relevant for a given period. Easier to deal with ready-made mixtures, which only need to be diluted with water, since percentage they are already complied with by the manufacturer.
For stone fruits
When grown in the garden fruit plants- cherries, cherries, plums, apricots - you should stock up on manure. You need to take rotted manure, otherwise its effect will be delayed and the tree will be in right moment will not receive nutrients.
Organic supplements are poor in mineral compounds, and stone fruits require potassium and calcium in very large quantities. Therefore, before fruiting begins, you should treat the soil well and add all the necessary substances to it. They are introduced into the tree trunk circle to a depth of 10 cm.
If there is ash in stock, then less mineral fertilizers can be used. The ash contains lime, which reduces the acidity of the soil and has a good effect on the harvest.
Young stone fruit plants require more nitrogen nutrition than potassium.
For pomaceae
Apples and pears require more fertilizer than stone fruits. However, it is not recommended to fertilize trees in the first year of life. Only from the second - and then little by little. Phosphorus-potassium in the fall, nitrogen in the spring.
Seed plants must be sprayed with microfertilizers, Copper sulfate is especially important. This protects trees from fungal diseases. The lack of phosphorus in the soil is compensated by spraying. In dry summers, the garden may need manganese, boron, and zinc.
