Nutrient Indexing of Apple Orchards using Geo-Spatial Techniques

Fertilizers being the costliest inputs, the scientific approaches towards precision Horticulture would imply the use of nutrients according to the actual needs of the soil and crop situations. Geo-spatial techniques thus have much to offer for preparing spatial soil and leaf nutrient maps. Nutrient indexing and mapping using such techniques have shown highest spatial variation in soil pH, EC, OC (%) and bio-available N, P, Ca, Mg, Cu, Zn and Mo contents and leaf nutritional status indicated deficiencies of N, K, Ca, Cu, Zn and B in apple orchards. Spatial variability in orchards soil and apple leaf nutrients indicated a strong need for the development of site- specific recommendations to improve and sustain yield as well as quality of apple. Once the maps are created, it is possible to transform the information from Soil Plant Test Crop Response models into spatial fertilizer recommendation maps. The application of fertilizer on the basis of spatial variability maps will not only reduce the cost of inputs for targeted yield(s) but also help in the balanced fertilizer application that will lead to better soil health, quality of produce and sustainability of production system.