Nutrient Management Research Database

Site-specific fertilization benefited growers by increasing yield andfruit  size  of  the  'Hass'  avocado  under  rainfed  tropical  conditions (Nayarit, MÈxico). Implementation of site-specific nutrient management principles enabled growers of the region to exceed their research goal of doubling avocado yields and fruit size

This study investigated the effectiveness of a variable rate fertilizer approach in a 'Hass' avocado orchard planted at 63 trees per acre.

Fertilizer was applied as follows:

These fertilizer rates were determined as the experiment progrssed based on leaf nutrient concentrations.

Yield and fruit size were measured each year

In 1996 and 1997 (prior to the experiment starting) yields were 3.6 to 4.4 tons/acre.

A sharp uptick in yield was observed starting in 1999, with average yields reaching 14.3 tons/acre.

Following this year, a moderate alternate bearing pattern was observed (yields fluctuated between 11 and 12 tons/acre) though yields never dropped below 11 tons/acre.

Fruit increased as a result of this fertilization regime.

The exact rates tested in this trial might not apply in California's Mediterranean climate.