Pruning and nitrogen effects on elemental partitioning and fruit maturity in ‘Bing’ sweet cherry

Abstract

Six levels of pruning and two rates of nitrogen fertilizer were applied to 20‐year old ‘Bing’ sweet cherry (Prunus avium) trees over several seasons. Two consecutive years of heavy pruning increased leaf N, P, K. and Cu, and fruit N, P, K Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Si, Zn, and Sr as compared to non‐pruned trees. Non‐pruned trees had fruits with more soluble solid concentration (SSC) and color. Higher nitrogen application resulted in higher concentrations of N, Mn, and Cu, but lower P, K Ca, B, and Mo in the leaf. High N fertilizer also increased fruit N, Mn, Zn, Na, and Sr, but delayed fruit maturity. A major year to year variation was observed with leaf N increasing and K decreasing in the heavy cropping year. More precise attention to the pruning practices and crop load in addition to fertilizer practice is recommended when interpreting the results of any leaf mineral analysis.

Notes

Tree Fruit Physiologist, Corresponding author.

Professor of Horticulture.

Professor of Horticulture.