Abstract
Background: The effects of different fertilizer types and their application rates on leaf nutrient content and avocado yield are unclear. An evaluation of eucalyptus-wood-based compost applied at 0, 5, 10, and 15 t ha−1 year−1 on foliar nutrient content, yield, and fruit size distribution (%) was completed at Mooketsi and Politsi, Limpopo Province, South Africa, from 2016 to 2018. Methods: A completely randomized block design with three replicates was used. Data were collected annually, and fruit size was classified as classes; 1 (>275 g), 2 (197–274 g), 3 (148–196 g), and 4 (0–147 g). Results: Leaf N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Na, Cu, and Zn, fruit yield and size distribution (%) were significantly (p < 0.05) affected by compost quantity and proportionally increased with application rates in each year. Compost had cumulative effects on the measured parameters; the highest values were recorded in 2018 under a 15 t ha−1 application rate, which corresponded to the highest yield (19.6 t ha−1) and the largest proportion of fruits in class 1. Conclusions: The ≥10 t ha−1 year−1 application rate can be used, though the compost saturation levels of the soils should be determined to avoid possible danger of nutrient toxicity if high application rates are continuously used for >3 years.
Highlights
Soil fertility management is a key factor in attaining high yield and quality in avocados [1]
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The study was completed at Mooketsi (23 0380 53.56300 S, 30 030 18.96400 E and 751 m altitude) and Politsi (23 0450 56.40500 S, 30 060 42.26400 E and 805 m altitude) avocado orchards, Limpopo Province, South Africa
Summary
Soil fertility management is a key factor in attaining high yield and quality in avocados [1]. Inorganic fertilizers have distinctly negative effects on the sustainability of the soil and residual effects on the harvestable plant products if poorly managed [2]. This suggests that the use of inorganic fertilizers can negatively affect crop quality’s both extrinsic and intrinsic qualities. The use of compost is one of the sustainable alternative ways of reducing the negative effects of inorganic fertilizers on the soil and crop. Results: Leaf N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Na, Cu, and Zn, fruit yield and size distribution (%) were significantly (p < 0.05) affected by compost quantity and proportionally increased with application rates in each year. Compost had cumulative effects on the measured parameters; the highest values were recorded in 2018 under a 15 t ha−1 application rate, which corresponded to the highest yield (19.6 t ha−1 ) and the largest proportion of fruits in class
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