Using AGGRAND to Grow Apples

Growing with AGGRAND

Using AGGRAND to Grow Apples

Apples respond to foliar and soil applications of AGGRAND fertilizers. Peak foliar responses are obtained on perennial crops such as apples by applying AGGRAND fertilizers after the leaves open during pre-bloom, post-bloom, and fruit set. Too much N affects fruit quality and shelf life. While nitrogen (N) is an important nutrient in apple production, apple trees store N from season to season. If leaves are chlorotic after they open in spring then this condition is a symptom of an N deficiency, which may limit production. Adjust the N status of this crop by changing the foliar spray and soil application rates, type of fertilizer applied and the number of applications.

Foliar Applications:

Mix 1 to 2 gallons of AGGRAND Natural Organic Liquid Fertilizer 4-3-3 in 50-100 gallons of water (depending on tree density, spray equipment, and canopy volume). Spray on one acre after the leaves open. After bloom, repeat the AGGRAND Natural Organic Liquid Fertilizer 4-3-3 application if the trees require more N.

Mix 2 to 4 quarts of AGGRAND 0-0-8 Natural Kelp and Sulfate of Potash with the same volume of water and apply after fruit set.

Repeat the second application 3 to 4 weeks before final harvest.

Rates vary according to soil fertility and other inputs used. Lower dilution rates are more effective than higher dilution rates. Two or three applications may be more effective than one heavy application. If other constraints only allow one trip over the field, then do not exceed a 3 percent dilution rate (3 gallons of AGGRAND to 100 gallons of water).

The addition of a biodegradable surfactant increases uptake by increasing adhesion to the leaf surface. Apply AGGRAND in the early morning or late evening. Do not apply before or after rainfall or irrigation. On standard field sprayers, use turbo flood jet nozzles when applying AGGRAND to reduce clogging.

If bitter pit is a problem then add 1 to 2 gallons of AGGRAND Natural Liquid Lime to the spray tank to supply additional calcium.

To reduce susceptibility to attack of insects and disease causing organisms, apply 1 to 2 quarts of AGGRAND 0-0-8 Natural Kelp and Sulfate of Potash when signs of infestation first become apparent. AGGRAND added to the spray tank reduces the pesticide needed to obtain effective control by 1/3 to 1/2. Some growers find AGGRAND applications alone eliminate the need for pesticide applications when they are applied at the same time as pesticides.

Soil Applications:

Mix 3 gallons of AGGRAND Natural Organic Liquid Fertilizer 4-3-3 in 20 to 30 gallons of water. Apply solution to one acre (apply spring and fall if soil is hard and low in organic matter).