Nutrition Considerations
Throughout the period from post-harvest through to leaf fall, fruit trees are accumulating nutrients and carbohydrates, storing these for use in the following spring. New Zealand’s long growing season provides a distinct advantage for growers as photosynthesis continues to occur well into autumn. This enables carbohydrate production to continue for a longer period in our trees compared to other growing regions. Growers should look to maximise this natural advantage, and make sure their trees enter dormancy with adequate nutrient reserves.
When walking blocks, growers should be sure to take note of foliage colour, tree health, areas of poor growth or any fruit colour problems. This information, coupled with a leaf sample analysis to verify the current nutrient situation will allow the post-harvest nutrition programme to be tailored to the block’s individual needs, and ensure the trees are then set up well for the next season.
Root Health Considerations
Turning the post harvest management attention underground, root health is also an important consideration at this time of the year. Dry roots are not going to be operating at optimum, therefore growers need to ensure blocks have adequate water, for root function, root renewal and nutrient uptake as they move into dormancy. We have quite a range of growing conditions across the Heretaunga Plains, with differences in rainfall, ET, soil type, subsurface hydraulic pressure, therefore a localised understanding of your rainfall and soil moisture status is key.
Flooded root systems will also not be operating at optimum. Therefore, the post harvest period is a good time carry out drainage system maintenance. This helps ensure good root health is maintained prior to potential water logging from winter rainfall events. Poorly maintained drainage (root balls causing blockages, or collapsed tiles) is a limiting factor for root health and resilience. Good drainage allows deep root systems to develop and access underground water reserves, as well as supporting sustainable yields and nutrient uptake.
Sarah McArley, AgFirst Consultants
