Mapping of leaf nutrient status of apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) plantations in northwestern Himalayas

Abstract

Spatial variability of leaf nutrients in apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) plantations in Nichar, Kalpa and Pooh region of Himachal Pradesh state of India were examined for implementation of site-specific fertilisation programs. Georeferenced leaf samples were collected randomly for the apple plantations. The leaf nutrient concentrations were assessed and analysed statistically and geostatistically. The concentrations of leaf nutrients such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), boron (B), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn) and molybdenum (Mo) in apple plantations varied widely at different locations. Foliar nutrients like N, Ca, Mn, B and Zn in the apple plantations shows an increasing trend longitudinally. Leaf N concentration was positively and significantly correlated with Zn concentration at Nichar, Kalpa and Pooh and with Ca and B at Pooh and with Ca at Nichar and with B at Kalpa, only. Positive and significant correlation between leaf K and Ca was concentration was recorded at Nichar, Kalpa and Pooh. Geostatistical analysis of leaf nutrients showed different distribution patterns at different locations. This study revealed the need to determine spatial variability of nutrient status of apple plantations before planning a differential fertiliser program. Therefore, saving of nutrients could be achieved by adopting site-specific nutrient-management strategies.