Evaluating leaf nutrient dynamics in apple cv. JEROMINE

Abstract

The investigation titled “Evaluating leaf nutrient dynamics in apple cv. Jeromine” was carried out over the years 2018-19 and 2019-20 at the Fruit Research Farm, Department of Fruit Science, Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India. The study examined three-year-old Jeromine apple trees grafted onto M9 rootstock, ensuring uniform vigour and size among the selected trees. These trees were planted at four different densities: 5333 (2.5 m × 0.75 m), 4000 (2.5 m × 1.00 m), 3200 (2.5 m × 1.25 m) and 2666 (2.5 m × 1.50 m) trees per hectare. Utilizing a randomized block design with six replications, the research assessed how planting density influenced leaf nutrient content. The findings revealed that leaf nutrient levels were significantly affected by the different planting densities, with the 2666 trees/ha (2.5 m × 1.5 m) density yielding the highest nutrient content. This study highlights the critical role of planting density in nutrient uptake for apple trees, suggesting that lower planting densities enhance nutrient absorption. These insights can guide horticultural practices to optimize nutrient management in apple orchards within similar agro-climatic regions.