Foliar feeding is a widely adopted technique for supplementing nutrients in fruit trees. It is typically used alongside basal fertilization and offers several advantages, such as saving labor and resources, enabling quick nutrient absorption, being cost-effective, and allowing for flexible application methods. As a result, it has become a popular practice among farmers. However, the effectiveness of foliar feeding depends on several factors, including the type of fertilizer used, its concentration, timing, and application method. To ensure optimal results, the following points should be carefully considered:
First, foliar feeding should only be used as a supplementary method to meet the immediate nutrient needs of fruit trees during critical growth stages. It should never replace soil fertilization, which provides a more balanced and long-term nutrient supply.
Second, the best time to apply foliar fertilizers is during key growth periods when trees are most sensitive to nutrient uptake. For example, during the new shoot growth phase, trees are transitioning from stored nutrients to active growth. Spraying urea at this time can stimulate new shoot development. During flower bud differentiation and fruit enlargement, the tree experiences high nutritional demand due to multiple developmental processes occurring simultaneously. Applying potassium dihydrogen phosphate or leaching with wood ash during this period helps improve flower formation, fruit size, and overall fruit quality. After harvest, leaves begin to age, and spraying urea can enhance leaf photosynthesis and improve the tree’s nutrient reserves for the next season.
Third, the concentration of foliar fertilizers is usually low, and each application delivers a small amount of nutrients. Therefore, it often requires repeated applications—typically two to three times—to achieve the desired effect.
Fourth, the best time to spray is in the early morning after 10 a.m. or in the late afternoon before 4 p.m., or on cloudy days. This avoids issues like rapid evaporation under high temperatures or fertilizer burn caused by concentrated solutions. It's also important to complete the spraying within 12 hours to maintain effectiveness.
Fifth, when applying foliar sprays, care must be taken to ensure even coverage. Fertilizers are mainly absorbed through the stomata on the leaf surface, and these are more numerous on the underside of the leaves. Therefore, both the top and bottom of the leaves should be thoroughly sprayed for maximum nutrient uptake.
Lastly, foliar fertilizers can be combined with pesticide applications, but it's crucial to avoid mixing acidic and alkaline products, as this can reduce effectiveness or cause damage to the plants. Always check compatibility before combining any substances.
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