Soil-leaf tissue analysis for nutrient management in fruit crops

Abstract

Nutrients are generally supplied taking account of current fruits and vegetative growth. Variability has been observed in nutrient removal and uptake from the soil. The mismanagement of fertilizers like excessive use of fertilizers, not only leads to economic losses, but also leads to serious nutrient imbalances, nutrient leaching and environmental pollution. Nutrient management through the combination of soil and leaf tissue analysis for nutrient diagnosis and recommendation is emerging as better tool. The present article highlights the do’s and dont’s during index leaf sample collection, analysis and interpretation of results. Soil test and plant response correlation may help in working out specific nutrients needed based on soil fertility status and crop need. There is a need to have
synergies between requirement and supply of fertilizer to get higher yield and profitability.