Cultivating peach trees requires precise fertilization techniques. Apart from the essential basal fertilization, supplemental fertilization during the growth period is also crucial to meet the specific nutrient requirements at different stages of growth and development. So, what fertilizer should be applied for peach trees? Let's find out.
What Fertilizer to Apply for Peach Trees?
Timing of Fertilization for Peach Trees
The principle of fertilizing peach trees is little and often. Important fertilization periods include: before budding, after flowering, before fruiting, and after fruiting.
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Before budding: Fertilization should be carried out around 20 days before budding, mainly with high-nitrogen compound fertilizers, supplemented with some phosphorus and potassium fertilizers.
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After flowering: Fertilization after flowering is generally carried out before early spring. The fertilizer applied is mainly nitrogen fertilizer, which can be applied during spring irrigation.
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Before fruiting: Fertilization can be carried out 2-3 weeks before fruiting. At this time, the fruits will rapidly enlarge, and additional potassium and calcium fertilizers can be applied to effectively increase yield and improve quality.
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After fruiting: After fruiting, it is a period of nutrient accumulation. Fertilization at this time can make the trees vigorous and the flower buds full, laying a good foundation for a bountiful harvest next year. The fertilizer used mainly consists of livestock and poultry manure, straw, and mixed organic fertilizers.
Methods of Fertilization for Peach Trees
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Before budding: The amount of spring fertilizer accounts for 10% of the total annual fertilizer application. Generally, 0.1-0.2 kg of urea, 0.15 kg of calcium superphosphate, and 0.4 kg of potassium chloride are applied per plant. When applying fertilizer, attention should be paid to avoid large-scale soil turning to prevent root and tree damage.
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After flowering: The main fertilizer after flowering is nitrogen fertilizer, supplemented with a small amount of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer. Depending on the soil fertility, generally 5-10 kg of urea per mu is applied. Well-fermented cake fertilizer can also be used to improve the quality of peaches.
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Before fruiting: The period before fruiting is a critical period for peach tree fruit expansion. Fertilization should consist of 8-15 kg of urea per mu and 5-13 kg of potassium fertilizer per mu. Finally, micronutrient fertilizers such as 0.25 kg of borax, 2 kg of zinc sulfate, and about 5 kg of ferrous sulfate can be sprayed according to actual conditions.
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After fruiting: Fertilization after fruiting can use well-fermented farmyard manure mixed with a small amount of chemical fertilizer. The amount of fertilizer applied is calculated based on the yield of 1 kg of peach fruits, and 1.5-2 kg of high-quality farmyard manure is applied. The main method of fertilization is furrow application, and the trench should be dug in the middle of the outer edge of the tree canopy's vertical projection.
Conclusion
Overall, peach trees require fertilization 3-4 times a year. By mastering the key periods mentioned above and managing the selection and application of fertilizers well, the fertilization work can be satisfactorily completed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the timing for fertilizing peach trees?
The timing for fertilizing peach trees includes before budding, after flowering, before fruiting, and after fruiting.
2. What types of fertilizers are recommended for peach trees?
For peach trees, it is recommended to use high-nitrogen compound fertilizers before budding, nitrogen fertilizer after flowering, potassium and calcium fertilizers before fruiting, and well-fermented farmyard manure after fruiting.
3. How much fertilizer should be applied per peach tree?
The amount of fertilizer applied per peach tree varies depending on factors such as tree age, soil fertility, and environmental conditions. However, general guidelines suggest specific amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers to be applied per mu of land.
4. Can peach trees be fertilized with organic fertilizers?
Yes, peach trees can be fertilized with organic fertilizers such as livestock and poultry manure, straw, and compost. Organic fertilizers provide essential nutrients and improve soil structure, promoting healthy growth and fruit development.
5. How often should peach trees be fertilized?
Peach trees should be fertilized 3-4 times a year, with each application timed according to the tree's growth stage and nutrient requirements. Regular fertilization ensures optimal growth, development, and fruit production.
