To discuss the cultural practices involved in the care of fruit trees. Ask the students to list the environmental, soil, and climate challenges they would have to address to successfully grow fruit commercially in their county- soil alkalinity, hail, wind, low precipitation rates, short season etc. Relate these challenges to the cultural practices discussed below. Tree growth increments, age, and performance determine nitrogen requirements. Tissue analysis is considered a better indication of nitrogen needs than soil tests.
Yearly applications are typical.
Iron and Zinc are most often deficient. Only chelated iron should be used. Both iron and zinc can be applied as foliar sprays. Too much irrigation can lead to root rot problems. Too little irrigation can lead to declined growth and vigor, poor fruit set or size, and reduced yield.