In May and again in early July, repeat the same nitrogen application, or use 0.5 lb of NH 4 NO 3 per tree in May and early July. Broadcast the recommended lime as soon as possible. In early March, broadcast 60 lbs of N per acre along with any P 2 O 5 and K 2 O recommended. Once trees begin to bear, fertility factors have a large impact on production as well as tree growth. Plant tissue analysis and soil testing together define fertility needs and indicate solutions much better than either alone.
Soil tests indicate corrections needed in the soil.
Plant analysis measures the effectiveness of fertilization and reveals less obvious nutrient shortages that directly affect performance and yield. Apply lime, if needed, as soon as possible. If the magnesium level is questionable, use dolomitic lime. Broadcast all the P 2 O 5 and up to 60 lbs K 2 O along with 40 lbs N per acre in early March. If the trees are on deep sandy soil, apply 20 to 30 lbs sulfur per acre to prevent a deficiency of this nutrient.