Fertility Plan: As the season winds down, California growers have an opportunity to turn this year’s data into next year’s game plan. In today’s Agronomic Minute, Dylan Rogers, Sales Account Manager for AgroLiquid, encouraged growers to take a long-term view by compiling and analyzing multiple years of soil and tissue test results.
“Compile as much data as you can. It’s your friend,” Rogers said. By laying out three or four years of soil samples alongside tissue test results, growers can begin identifying consistent trends. Whether it’s recurring zinc deficiencies, potassium uptake challenges, or calcium imbalances, patterns often become clear when enough data is reviewed together.
Rogers noted that understanding nutrient relationships is key. For example, high phosphorus levels in the soil can interfere with zinc uptake, while sodium issues may impact potassium availability. By recognizing these interactions, growers can make targeted adjustments instead of simply increasing fertilizer rates.
Fall soil amendments are another area where data-driven decisions can make a difference. Rogers cautioned against applying products simply out of habit. Gypsum, for instance, is commonly applied each fall for water infiltration and salt mitigation. However, some orchards may already have calcium base saturation levels above 80 percent, meaning additional gypsum may not be necessary.
He also warned about certain nutrient combinations. Applying gypsum alongside dry phosphorus sources such as 11-52-0 can lead to the formation of calcium phosphate, effectively locking up phosphorus in the soil. Paying attention to these nutrient interactions helps ensure that amendments remain available to the tree rather than becoming unavailable in the soil profile.
By reviewing historical data, questioning routine practices, and understanding nutrient relationships, growers can build a smarter, more efficient fertility plan for the upcoming season.
For more information on fertility strategies, visit AgroLiquid.com.