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Fruit recommendations can be quite specific; here we discuss fruit trees first, then small fruit plants such as berries and grapes. A fertilizer recommendation for fruit trees might look like this. See an example for small fruits below.
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RECOMMENDATIONS FOR: Fruit trees |
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Limestone: |
NONE |
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Nitrogen (N): |
50 lb/Acre |
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Phosphate (P2O5): |
95 lb/Acre |
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Potassium ( K2O): |
170 lb/Acre |
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MESSAGES |
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Adjust the nitrogen rate to obtain desired growth.* Nutrient requirements may vary with tree size and age. Consult your county extension agent for more precise nutrient recommendations. |
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For established trees, soil test levels are a general indicator of the soil fertility status and nutrient need. Leaf tissue analysis is a better indicator for adjusting these nutrient recommendations. |
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Test methods: 1-1:1 soil:water pH, 2-Bray P1 Extractant, 3- 1N Ammonium Acetate Extractant |
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In the example, fertilizer is recommended on the basis of an acre. For backyard or small orchard, divide the amount by 43.5 to learn how many pounds per 1000 sq. ft. under the trees. It should be applied in a wide band around the drip line of the trees as in Fertilizing trees and shrubs.
*Many backyard trees are planted in very fertile soils or overfertilized by lawn applications so that there is more growth of branches and suckers at the expense of quality fruit. This also complicates pruning. For example, the main branches of an apple tree should not grow more than 12-18 inches longer per year. If growth is good, or more than good, do not fertilize unless leaf tissue samples indicate a need for nutrients.
Use a fertilizer calculator, or Learn to calculate the amount of fertilizer that will meet the recommendations.
Small fruits
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RECOMMENDATIONS FOR: Blueberry, new planting |
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Limestone: |
NONE |
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Nitrogen (N): |
30 lb/A |
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Phosphate (P2O5): |
40 lb/A |
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Potassium ( K2O): |
140 lb/A |
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MESSAGES |
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| Blueberries require a more acid soil, between pH 4.5 and 5.0 is best. Relocate or apply sulfur. Consult your county extension agent. | ||
| Leaf tissue analysis is a better indicator for adjusting these nutrient recommendations. | ||
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Test methods: 1-1:1 soil:water pH, 2-Bray P1 Extractant, 3- 1N Ammonium Acetate Extractant |
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Blueberries are special: Blueberries evolved under acidic soil conditions where levels of many nutrients are naturally low. Generally, bushes require little and are sensitive to too much fertility. Most soils can supply adequate nutrients if the soil pH is maintained in the proper range. If soil pH is greater than 5.5, apply elemental sulfur to decrease pH to 4.5. For more detail on fertilizing blueberries, see Managing the Nutrition of Highbush Blueberries, MSU Bulletin E2011 Order MSU Bulletins .
For berries in rows, you can assume the roots grow between the rows, so you measure the whole area and apply fertilizer evenly over the soil between the rows as well as in the row.
Timing of fertilization is particularly important for small fruits. For example, spring applications of Nitrogen to a strawberry patch will result in soft berries that are more susceptible to damage from diseases. For culture recommendations, see the appropriate bulletins and fact sheets for each crop.
Use a fertilizer calculator, or Learn to calculate the amount of fertilizer that will meet the recommendations.