Keywords
Olea europaea
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How to Cite
Abstract
The growing olive industry in the southeastern United States, including Florida, lacks specific fertilization guidelines due to limited region-specific research. Existing recommendations from other regions guide current practices. This guide outlines nutrient management for olive trees, assuming a density of 600 trees per acre. Fertilization should be uniformly distributed within the tree’s dripline, integrating soil and plant tissue sampling to inform nutrient needs, particularly using leaf tissue analysis for accurate in-season nutrient assessment. Nutrient recommendations primarily address nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and boron (B), with specific protocols for leaf tissue sampling and sufficiency ranges. Challenges in Florida include rapid leaching of B and K in sandy soils and the risk of excessive irrigation. This guide highlights the need for ongoing research to develop Florida-specific best management practices for olive production. Additional resources on olive cultivation in Florida are provided.
References
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