Irrigation and Nutrition

Mike, our Agronomist, was recently asked a few questions about irrigation and nutrition for a magazine. 

What quality parameters can be influenced (fruit size, flavour, firmness, shelf life, etc.)?

All crop quality parameters can be enhanced through correct use of nutrition. Having the ideal strength and balance of nutrients at all stages of the crop cycle will help to ensure the best product performance in terms of marketable yield, flavour, texture and shelf-life.

Calcium is a vitally important element for fruit development and shelf-life. Calcium movement is governed by xylem transport with the transpiration stream, so it may not be present in fruit at the optimum levels. Foliar sprays of Inca®, the leading calcium mobility product, have been shown to improve both yield and shelf life of soft fruit.

Biostimulants also have a role to play in maximising fruit yield and quality. Applications of HortiBoost, Hortifeeds unique combined biostimulant, have resulted in significant increases in yield and fruit quality in trials at New Farm Produce in Staffordshire.

What are the key elements to consider / measure in terms of irrigation scheduling for quality?

The combination of conductivity of the feed solution, in both drip and drain and run-off percentage, is key. Irrigation volumes and timing must be calculated to ensure the conductivity in the bag doesn’t rise too high or drop too low.  If the conductivity of the bags rises due to the presence of excess sulphates for example, we recommend applying HortiFlush. This product has been designed to remove excess salts and built-up deposits by the synergistic effect of acidic and surfactant components. Optimising conductivity, combined with correct fertiliser balance, leads to even and consistent fruit quality throughout production.

Are any particular nutrients more influential or important than others?

Each of the essential nutrients and trace elements have a role to play in optimising fruit yield and quality, so getting the correct balance of each of these is key to ensuring consistent crop quality and yield. Growers should keep in mind that the mix of nutrients needed will change depending on the stage in the cycle of the crop. Using Hortifeeds Soft Fruit Coir Mix (or Peat Mix, depending on substrate used), in combination with adjustment of quantities of calcium and ammonium nitrate fertilisers, allows growers to provide the right conditions at each stage. A vegetative feed with a higher nitrogen content is an excellent start in producing good-sized, vigorous plants. As flowers begin to develop, a fruiting feed with higher potassium and calcium will maximise fruit production and quality.

What are the most common mistakes made by growers in terms of irrigation scheduling or feed?

Some growers may not alter their feed during the season, resulting in crops not getting certain nutrients when it’s critical. Hortifeeds work alongside their customers to ensure the feeding programme is optimised for their crops at each stage of the cycle.