2018 ASHS Annual Conference

Citrus production in Florida occupies an estimated 176,848 ha, and had a crop value of $800 million in 2017. The total impact of citrus on Florida’s economy is approximately $8.6 billion a year. The sandy soils, with more than 97% sand content, are prone to leaching of fertilizers and other agricultural chemicals when over-irrigation, heavy storms or hurricanes occur. Good understanding of nutrient movement and uptake in the root zone is critical for proper placement and timing of fertilizer applications. Experiments were conducted to determine nutrient and biomass accumulation patterns in in young citrus grown on Florida sandy soils. Results show improved nitrogen uptake by up to 45% using intensive microsprinkler and drip fertigation practices and reduced inorganic N, P and K leaching compared with conventional microsprinkler practices. Biomass, P and K accumulation among the fertilization practices was comparable over the years of study. The reduction in N leaching and improved uptake is important because it helps growers reduce N losses especially in summer months when leaching is exacerbated by rains.