Fruit trees need abundant nutrients throughout their growth, flowering, and fruiting stages.
Proper fertilization not only increases yield but also improves fruit quality and enhances resistance to pests and diseases.
However, improper fertilization can cause poor growth, smaller fruits, or even reduced yield.
I. Three Key Fertilization Periods for Fruit Trees
1. Spring Bud Fertilization (February–March)
Purpose: Stimulates new shoot growth and improves flowering and fruit setting rates.
Recommended fertilizers: Organic fertilizers (well-decomposed farmyard manure, oil cakes), high-nitrogen compound fertilizers (such as urea).
2. Fruit Expansion Stage (May–June)
Purpose: Promotes fruit development and increases sugar accumulation.
Recommended fertilizers: High-potassium compound fertilizers (such as potassium sulfate), phosphorus-potassium fertilizers (such as monopotassium phosphate).
3. Autumn Base Fertilization (September–October)
Purpose: Restores tree vigor, promotes root growth, and stores nutrients for the next fruiting season.
Recommended fertilizers: Well-decomposed organic fertilizers (sheep manure, chicken manure, etc.), slow-release compound fertilizers.
II. Important Fertilization Tips
Organic fertilizers must be fully decomposed, otherwise they may burn roots and attract pests or diseases.
Avoid over-fertilization, especially excessive nitrogen, which can cause overgrowth of branches and leaves, reducing fruit yield.
Water promptly after fertilization to help nutrient absorption and prevent fertilizer burn.
Different fruit trees require different nutrients: citrus trees need more potassium, while apple trees need a balanced supply of nutrients.
III. Bonus Tip: Foliar Fertilization
In addition to root fertilization, you can also apply foliar sprays to supplement micronutrients (such as boron, zinc, and iron), which improve photosynthesis efficiency and reduce physiological disorders.
Recommended formulas:
Before flowering: Spray 0.2% borax solution (to improve fruit set rate).
During fruit expansion: Spray 0.3% monopotassium phosphate solution (to promote sweetness and coloration).
