Pistachio Nitrogen (N) and 

Potassium (K) Fertilization Models

 

R.C.Rosecrance, College of Agriculture, California State University, Chico
          S.A. Weinbaum and P.H. Brown, Pomology Department, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95926
 

Funding for this project was provided through a grant from the California Pistachio Commission

                                                                                                              

Introduction   

This model calculates the N requirement for pistachio production based upon the yield history, current conditions and previous N applications. This model can be used to calculate both timing and rate of fertilizer application required to maintain optimum yield. Site-specific information is required for accurate projection of N requirement, hence this model should be applied to each distinct management unit (block or field).  Potassium fertilizer recommendations are based only upon the yield history and leaf K levels (not upon soil levels).  The data used in this model were derived from exhaustive tree-N and tree-K budget determinations and input from Dr. Max Stevenson Research Scientist, Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program, University of California, Davis.

Attention

This program provides recommendations only and is not intended to be used as the sole source of information for making N and K fertilization decisions.  Local environmental conditions can have a profound effect of fertilizer demands.  The California Pistachio Commission, California State University, and the University of California are not responsible for the accuracy of this model.  If there are any questions or concerns about the model please email Dr. Richard Rosecrance at: rrosecrance@csuchico.edu