What is the Best Fertilizer for Peach Trees in Spring?
Peach trees are widely cultivated in China and are known for their high economic value. Spring is a crucial period for peach tree growth, and they begin their growth activities earlier than other fruit trees. Therefore, it's essential to provide adequate nutrients through proper fertilization. Let's explore the best fertilization practices for peach trees in spring.
What is the Best Fertilizer for Peach Trees in Spring?
1. Budding Fertilizer
As the temperature rises in spring, peach tree buds begin to sprout. It's crucial to apply budding fertilizer in a timely manner. Typically, this is done 15 days before the beginning of spring. Each peach tree should receive 0.5 kg of nitrogen, 0.3 kg of potassium, and 0.2 kg of phosphorus, mixed with well-rotted manure and water.
2. Flowering Fertilizer
During the flowering period, quick-acting fertilizers are essential. Fertilize once before flowering and once after. Pre-flowering fertilizers, primarily nitrogen, promote new shoot growth, enhance fruit set rate, and support young fruit development. Post-flowering fertilizers should be quick-acting nitrogen, supplemented with quick-acting phosphorus and potassium. Apply 15 kg of urea and 20 kg of potassium sulfate per acre during this period, which coincides with the root growth peak.
3. Fruit Set Fertilizer
Fruit set fertilizer is applied from the end of flowering to the hardening period. It mainly aims to increase fruit set rate and improve tree nutrition. Use primarily nitrogen and amino acid fertilizers, with a small amount of phosphorus and potassium. The amount used should be about 10% of the annual fertilization amount.
4. Hardening Period Fertilizer
During the hardening period, focus on supplementing phosphorus, potassium, boron, and calcium. Use water-soluble fertilizers rich in these nutrients, like Coside large element fertilizers, which contain trace elements such as calcium and boron. This ensures balanced nutrient supply and reduces fruit cracking.
Precautions for Spring Fertilization of Peach Trees
1. Shallow Application
Peach trees have shallow roots, with most roots distributed at a depth of 20-30 cm. Therefore, fertilizers should be applied shallowly, ideally at a depth of around 30 cm.
2. Varietal Differences
Different peach varieties have different spring fertilization times. Early-ripening varieties require earlier fertilization than late-ripening varieties. It's also crucial to enhance autumn basal fertilization, as early-ripening varieties require fewer spring fertilizations than late-ripening ones.
3. Fertilization Method
Spring fertilization should be done in small amounts multiple times to avoid waste. In densely planted orchards, increase the per-acre application rate while reducing the single plant amount. The best method is hole application.
4. Fertilizer Selection
To ensure good root respiration, apply more organic fertilizers and mix them properly with the soil to enhance soil structure and air content. During topdressing, use multi-formula nutrient element fertilizers to avoid nutrient deficiencies.
In summary, peach trees in spring undergo four stages: budding, flowering, fruit setting, and hardening. Proper fertilization management according to each stage's needs, along with the mentioned precautions, will yield excellent results.
