ISHS Acta Horticulturae 511: XXV International Horticultural Congress, Part 1: Culture Techniques with Special Emphasis on Environmental Implications - Nutrient Management
A COMPUTER PROGRAM FOR MICRONUTRIENTS APPLICATION ON CITRUS |
| Authors: | A.F.A. Fawzi, M.M. El-Fouly |
| Keywords: | Citrus, Computer Program, Egypt, Micronutrients |
| Abstract:
Citrus production in Egypt is limited, among other factors, by nutrient deficiencies ; especially micronutriens. Soil tests and leaf analysis of citrus orchards revealed that deficiency of Zn, Mn, Fe or Cu is significantly correlated with low yields. A program for assessing micronutrient status in leaves and correcting their deficiencies with suitable doses of foliar compounds was established for citrus. The program calculations are based on the target increase in the orchard yield (within the variety potential under the given environmental conditions and prevailing horticultural practices), degree of micronutrients deficits and average size of tree canopy/unit area. The program included an update enable list of micronutrients compounds available on the market, to enable the user of selecting the compound that fits in the correction of the diagnosed deficiency. The compound dose and timing of its foliar spray are also included in the program. The program was used in orchards at different areas in the country. Results revealed that at least 20% yield increase, with better fruit quality were achieved by applying the recommendations given by the program. Such increases might resemle the recovery of yield losses caused by micronutrients deficiencies. Work is in progress to verify and update the program. | |
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