Sharpen your knowledge of litchi tree fertilization with practical questions on nutrient management, soil practices, and timing. Explore essential strategies for nurturing healthy, high-yielding litchi orchards.
Which macronutrient is generally applied in the highest quantity for healthy litchi fruit development in most soil types?
Explanation: Nitrogen is most commonly applied in the highest quantity because it promotes vigorous vegetative growth necessary for fruit development. Phosphorus, while important, is generally needed in smaller amounts. Potassium is key for fruit quality, but recommended rates are often less than nitrogen. Calcium supports cell structure but is rarely the most limiting nutrient.
In litchi orchards, when is the optimal time to apply the major portion of annual fertilizer to support both flowering and fruit set?
Explanation: Applying the majority of fertilizer just before flowering ensures nutrients are available for flower initiation and fruit set. After harvest is more suitable for maintenance, while during fruit maturation, nutrient needs shift. The dormant season is less effective as active uptake is minimal.
How does adding well-decomposed farmyard manure (FYM) benefit litchi nutrition management?
Explanation: FYM improves soil structure, water retention, and supplies not only macronutrients but also secondary and micronutrients. It does not deliver a rapid nitrogen boost, nor does it significantly alter soil pH. While beneficial, it cannot replace the need for balanced inorganic fertilizers entirely.
A litchi tree shows leaf yellowing between veins while veins stay green. Which micronutrient deficiency does this symptom suggest?
Explanation: Interveinal chlorosis (yellowing between veins) with green veins commonly indicates iron deficiency. Boron usually affects shoot tips and fruit set. Zinc and manganese can cause similar chlorosis, but iron deficiency specifically causes pronounced interveinal symptoms starting on younger leaves.
What is the ideal soil pH range to maximize nutrient availability for litchi trees?
Explanation: A pH of 5.5–7.0 is optimal for litchi as most nutrients are available in this range. Extremely acidic soils (4.0–4.5) can cause toxicities, while alkaline soils (7.5 and above) can restrict micronutrient uptake. Thus, a near-neutral, slightly acidic environment best supports healthy litchi growth.