Rational nutrition of apple trees increases yield, enhances apple quality, reduces the occurrence of abnormalities in fruit physiology, such as bitter pit, bearing of small fruits, discoloration, etc., and increases the shelf life of apples. It therefore increases the nutritional value of apples, their competitiveness and enhances the prospects for increased exports.

The apple tree is a tree of mainly cold and humid areas. It thrives in fertile, deep, of medium composition, sandy-clayey soils, having sufficient water capacity, low electrical conductivity, pH 6-7.5 and a sufficient supply of calcium, organic matter (>2%) and a total calcium carbonate content of less than 10%. The main factors that influence the production and quality of the apple tree crop are the area where it is grown, the variety and the fertilization. In particular, the nutrients, such as nitrogen, potassium and calcium, have a strong influence on the quality production of apples.

The nutritional status of trees is influenced both by the absolute concentrations of nutrients and their relative proportions in the soil. Similarly, the quality and high nutritional value of the apples produced depends on their nutrient content.

It is necessary to base the fertilization of the apple tree on soil analysis and foliar diagnostics, so that with the right type of fertilizer and at the right timing, the best result is achieved. In the basal fertilization applied towards the end of winter, the following are applied:
• 1/3 of the total amount of nitrogen (N) required in ammoniacal form
• 3/4 or the total amount of phosphorus (P)
• 2/3 of the total amount of potassium (K) required

Surface fertilization is applied in two equal doses. The first at the beginning of flowering to meet the growth needs of the fruit and the second at the end of fruit setting or post-harvest in terms of nitrogen. The remaining 1/3 of the potassium is added during the rapid growth phase of the fruit in order to cover the increase in size and weight and at the same time to promote their quality characteristics (color, sugar).

Magnesium is absolutely essential in pome fruits. Its application with the basal fertilization is of great importance since high nitrogen fertilization, potassium and years of high fruitage favor the occurrence of nutrient deficiencies.

Our Suggestions

Basic fertilisation

Fertilizer type	Dosology
15-10-15+2MgO	75-100
20-10-20+2MgO	75-100
20-5-20+2ΜgO	75-100
12-8-16+2ΜgO+B/Fe/Zn	75-100
12-12-17+2ΜgO	75-100
15-15-15	75-100

Surface fertilisation

Fertilizer type	Dosology
46-0-0	25-40
40-0-0	25-40
33-0-0+31SO3	25-40
27-0-0	25-40
21-0-0	25-50