When it comes to tree crop nutrition, what growers did last season can have a major impact on what they see in the orchard today. In a recent Agronomic Minute, Dylan Rogers, Sales Account Manager for AgroLiquid, explained why post-harvest fertility programs play such a critical role in long-term production success.
Rogers often reminds growers that fertility decisions are not just about the current crop. “This year’s fertility, we’re making next year’s crop,” he said. That concept can be difficult to grasp, but it’s rooted in how trees and vines develop. Bud differentiation happens in the fall, meaning trees have already determined which buds will be vegetative and which will be fruiting well before bloom the following spring.
Because of that process, staying on top of fertility after harvest is essential. Rogers emphasized that a consistent nutrition program helps influence yield potential for the next season. If key applications were missed last year, growers shouldn’t panic, but they do need to pay closer attention moving forward.
One of Rogers’ biggest recommendations is using data to guide decisions. “Use as much data as you can,” he said, encouraging growers to regularly pull soil and tissue samples. These tools can help identify deficiencies and allow growers to make informed adjustments during the current season.
If certain nutrients—such as potassium or zinc—were skipped in previous programs, Rogers noted they can often be incorporated into this year’s plan. The key is understanding where the orchard stands nutritionally and responding accordingly.
Looking ahead to next year’s bloom, Rogers advised growers to review historical soil and tissue data to spot trends. Repeated struggles with specific nutrients may point to underlying soil ratios or availability issues that need to be addressed through smarter program design.
For more information on long-term fertility strategies, visit AgroLiquid.com.