Recently the Stoller Group developed a range of leading–edge products that not only supply nutrients but help to manage and maintain plant balance through all the various growth stages.
These products and programs can help with better pollination, more stress resistance, relocation of carbohydrates and prevention of physiological disorders.
Some of these concepts have created a strong interest and thirst for knowledge about the new technology. The progress being made is what is driving agriculture to new levels.
Don’t overlook the basics
On the other hand, we notice that sometimes the basics are overlooked.
There is no point spending inputs on enhancement treatments if the ‘meat and potatoes’ are not taken care of.
The main elements that stand out are nitrogen, phosphorus and trace elements such as zinc. Nearly everyone makes inputs of these elements but sometimes when overall inputs and management levels are improved, a commensurate increase in nutrient inputs is not made.
If we are asking for an improvement in marketable yield, then we should ensure that there are no limiting factors.
Example
Recently an orchardist in Western Australia was seeing a decline in tree performance.
The Stoller agronomist talked about limiting factors, and a foliar treatment of ZM2 + Iron was made.
The grower was most impressed by the response in the trees from such a basic and low-cost treatment.
Timing is important
There are two excellent opportunities to take care of any insufficiencies.
Post-harvest is a time when all elements can be added without triggering unnecessary vegetative growth.
The other is in the spring, where treatments can be made both to the roots and through the foliage.
Customised programs
Stoller Australia can offer a customised program for application at these times and our agronomy team can also review soil and tissue tests for a more tailored recommendation.
Many nutrient elements can be supplied in basic forms, but remember that availability to the plant and speed of uptake can be enhanced with appropriate delivery methods and by choosing the best nutrient forms such as Stoller phenolic chelates and N-Hib stabilised nitrogen.
Assistance
Of course, by talking to the crew at Stoller you can get assistance with all these inputs.
Stoller has some good literature and programs to suit most tree crops.
Call Stoller today on 1800 FERTILISER
www.stoller.com.au
For more information see Tree Fruit January 2015
