Citrus fruits, such as oranges and tangerines, are commonly seen fruits that are cultivated in various regions of China, with many varieties available. Some growers have reported the phenomenon of fruit dropping during the cultivation of citrus fruits, which can significantly affect the yield. So, what should be done when citrus fruits drop? Let's find out.
What to Do When Citrus Fruits Drop?
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Apply Sufficient Basal Fertilizer: Around the period before and after fruit harvesting, apply well-rotted organic fertilizer to enhance the nutrient storage capacity of fruit trees, preventing nutritional deficiencies in fruits during spring shoot elongation. From the spring warming period to the period before harvesting, apply quick-acting fertilizer to alleviate the conflict between shoot growth and fruiting.
Solution: Apply a multi-element fertilizer containing calcium, iron, zinc, and other trace elements to the plants during the fruiting period.
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Spray Nutrient Solution: During the fruiting period, spray a multi-element fertilizer solution onto the plants, preferably containing calcium, iron, zinc, and other trace elements.
Solution: Apply a multi-element fertilizer solution containing calcium, iron, zinc, and other trace elements to the plants during the fruiting period.
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Thinning Flowers and Fruits: From the bud stage to the end of the flowering period, thin out the flowers on the plants. For branches with many flowers, thin them more, while for branches with fewer flowers, thin them less or not at all, leaving only the branches with leaves. After the flowering period, thin out the fruits, mainly removing deformed, diseased, and injured fruits with unhealthy growth.
Solution: Remove the affected flower buds promptly and spray 90% crystal dichlorvos insecticide solution to control flower bud worms. For anthracnose, use 80% mancozeb wettable powder at a concentration of 600-800 times for control.
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Bud Wiping and Ring Pruning: Prune out densely grown or overlapping spring and summer shoots to reduce nutrient consumption of the tree.
Solution: Prune out densely grown or overlapping spring and summer shoots to reduce nutrient consumption of the tree.
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Water Management: Use drip irrigation or seepage irrigation to water the plants promptly during dry spring weather, while drain excess rainwater promptly during heavy rainfall.
Solution: Use drip irrigation or seepage irrigation to water the plants promptly during dry spring weather, while drain excess rainwater promptly during heavy rainfall.
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Pest and Disease Control: Implement pest and disease control measures during the spring warming period, mainly targeting flower bud worms and anthracnose. After the plants are infested with flower bud worms, promptly remove the affected flower buds and spray 90% crystal dichlorvos insecticide solution for control. For anthracnose, use 80% mancozeb wettable powder at a concentration of 600-800 times for control.
Solution: Implement pest and disease control measures during the spring warming period, mainly targeting flower bud worms and anthracnose. After the plants are infested with flower bud worms, promptly remove the affected flower buds and spray 90% crystal dichlorvos insecticide solution for control. For anthracnose, use 80% mancozeb wettable powder at a concentration of 600-800 times for control.
Above are the solutions for dealing with citrus fruit dropping. There are many reasons for citrus fruit dropping, such as nutritional deficiencies, and pest and disease infestations. Growers should address these issues promptly to avoid unnecessary losses.
Dealing with citrus fruit dropping requires a proactive approach and careful management of various factors that can affect fruit development. Apart from the measures mentioned earlier, there are additional strategies that growers can employ to mitigate fruit dropping and improve overall citrus fruit production.
Enhance Soil Fertility:
One effective way to prevent citrus fruit dropping is to ensure optimal soil fertility. This can be achieved through regular soil testing and amendments with organic matter, compost, and balanced fertilizers. By maintaining proper soil fertility levels, citrus trees can access essential nutrients needed for healthy fruit development, reducing the risk of premature fruit dropping.
Prune and Train Trees:
Pruning and training citrus trees can help optimize fruit production and minimize fruit dropping. Proper pruning techniques, such as removing dead or diseased branches, thinning out overcrowded areas, and shaping the tree canopy, can promote better air circulation and sunlight penetration, leading to improved fruit quality and retention.
Monitor Watering Practices:
Water management is crucial for preventing citrus fruit dropping, as both water scarcity and excess moisture can negatively impact fruit development. Growers should monitor soil moisture levels regularly and adjust irrigation schedules accordingly. Additionally, implementing mulching techniques can help conserve soil moisture and regulate temperature, creating optimal conditions for fruit growth.
Control Pests and Diseases:
Effective pest and disease management strategies are essential for protecting citrus trees from harmful pathogens and pests that can cause fruit dropping. Integrated pest management (IPM) approaches, such as cultural practices, biological controls, and judicious use of pesticides, can help minimize pest and disease pressures while maintaining ecological balance in the orchard.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
1. What are the common reasons for citrus fruit dropping?
Citrus fruit dropping can occur due to various factors, including inadequate soil fertility, improper watering practices, pest infestations, diseases, and environmental stressors such as temperature fluctuations and humidity levels.
2. How can I determine if citrus fruit dropping is caused by nutrient deficiencies?
Soil testing can help identify nutrient deficiencies in citrus trees. Common nutrient deficiencies that can lead to fruit dropping include nitrogen, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Addressing these deficiencies through proper fertilization and soil amendments can help prevent fruit dropping.
3. What are some cultural practices to prevent citrus fruit dropping?
Implementing cultural practices such as proper pruning, thinning, and training of citrus trees can help improve fruit retention. Additionally, maintaining optimal soil moisture levels, controlling weeds, and providing adequate sunlight exposure can contribute to healthier fruit development and reduced fruit dropping.
4. How can I control pests and diseases that cause citrus fruit dropping?
Integrated pest management (IPM) techniques, including biological controls, cultural practices, and selective pesticide applications, can help manage pest and disease pressures in citrus orchards. Regular monitoring and early detection of pest and disease outbreaks are key to effective control.
5. Are there any specific citrus varieties that are more prone to fruit dropping?
While fruit dropping can affect various citrus varieties, some cultivars may be more susceptible due to genetic factors or environmental conditions. Growers should select citrus varieties that are well-adapted to their region and implement appropriate management practices to minimize fruit dropping.< /p>
