Xixi Pomelo is a perennial evergreen fruit tree known for its high-quality seeds. It thrives in mountainous areas, sloping fields, hills, ridges, and flatlands, especially in Pinghe County, where it's widely cultivated. The region is dotted with lush Xixi Pomelo orchards, creating a vibrant green landscape. With an area of 450,000 mu and a total annual output of 600,000 tons, the fruit has become a major source of income for the local economy. Its high yield and stable production make it a rare gem in the fruit industry. However, achieving consistent high yields still poses challenges. Over-fertilization, improper application, and low fertilizer efficiency are key issues that need to be addressed. Soil-based fertilization is essential to ensure long-term stability and productivity.
Soil Properties
The main soil types found in Xixi Pomelo orchards include gray soil, terra cotta, red soil, and others. The texture of the soil significantly affects fertilization effectiveness, making it crucial for farmers to understand their specific soil type. Based on texture, orchard soils are generally classified into three categories: sandy soil, silty soil, and muddy soil, each with distinct characteristics:
1. Sandy Soil: This type has good aeration but poor water and nutrient retention. It also contains low levels of organic matter, which can affect plant growth if not managed properly.
2. Silty Sandy Soil: Offers better aeration, water, and nutrient retention than sandy soil. It has moderate organic matter content (1.0%–1.5%) and is slightly acidic (pH 4.5–5.5), making it suitable for consistent growth.
3. Muddy Soil: Has balanced aeration, good water and nutrient retention, and medium organic matter content (1.5%–2.5%). Its pH ranges from 4.0 to 5.5, offering favorable conditions for fruit development.
Fertilization Strategies
Xixi Pomelo is a large-canopy, long-lived fruit tree. High-yield trees can produce over 500 kg per plant, while adult trees (8–15 years old) typically yield between 50–100 kg annually. Pruning is essential to maintain balance, as excessive fruiting can drain nutrients. Therefore, proper nutrient supplementation is vital for maintaining high and stable yields.
The recommended fertilization method for orchards producing 50–100 kg per plant includes applying 1.5 kg of pure nitrogen, 0.9 kg of pure phosphorus, and 1.5 kg of pure potassium annually. The ratio of N:P:K is 1:0.6:1. Fertilizer distribution varies by season:
- Nitrogen: 20% winter, 15% flower promotion, 15% fruit protection, 40% fruit strengthening.
- Phosphorus: 50% winter, 15% flower retention, 35% fruit strengthening.
- Potassium: 30% winter, 10% flower protection, 10% fruit protection, 50% fruit strengthening.
Application timing depends on harvest periods and local climate. Winter fertilizer is applied from November to December, while flower fertilizer follows in the second or third month of the year. Fruit protection and strengthening fertilizers are applied later in the growing season based on tree needs.
For different soil types, the following fertilization methods are recommended:
1. Sandy Soil: Due to poor fertility and nutrient retention, more frequent but smaller applications are needed. Organic fertilizer should be used to improve soil quality.
2. Silty Sandy Soil: Slightly better in fertility and retention. A moderate amount of fertilizer is sufficient, with increased winter and fruit-strengthening applications.
3. Muddy Soil: Offers the best fertility and retention. Fertilization should be adjusted according to the tree’s physiological needs, with reduced overall amounts.
In general, higher-yielding trees require more fertilizer, while young or underproductive trees should receive less. Deep soil cultivation can help reduce fertilizer use, while poor soil conditions may require more frequent applications. Adding lime (5–10 kg per tree every 1–3 years) helps neutralize acidity and improve fertilizer efficiency, leading to better yields and sustainable production.
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