Why Post-Harvest Nutrition Matters
The right nutrient applications during this time can:
Replenish Depleted Nutrients
Support Carbohydrate Storage
Strengthen Cell Walls
Boost Reproductive Bud Formation
Improve Fruit Quality
Timing is everything — nutrients can only be absorbed while leaves are still active prior to senescing.
Let’s make the most of this critical window.
Ensure Maximum Crop Potential with Post-Harvest Nutrient Applications
The following nutrients are stored and used for the early stages of bud development, flowering, fruit set, and cell division and therefore should be focused on as well as any other deficiencies you encounter at post harvest.
Calcium
Calcium is stored to maximise the cell division phase and is integral to
strengthening cell walls which will create firmer fruit at harvest.
Zinc
Zinc is stored for the support of future leaf growth providing the base for strong photosynthesis in the next season. Zinc deficiencies are also linked to reduced leaf growth and blind buds.
Magnesium
Magnesium is used in the production of chlorophyll molecules and is used as new leaves form.
Nitrogen
Nitrogen is stored for energy production in the subsequent season ensuring a strong and even bud burst.
Boron
Boron is important for strengthening pollen tubes and is vital in fruit set in the next season as well as aiding in calcium uptake.
Identifying Nutrient Deficiencies through Leaf Tests
Using a leaf test at post-harvest can also help determine if any of these critical nutrients during this period are in low supply so that you can maximise your post harvest nutrient program.
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Prepare your plants for the next cropping cycle
Benefits of Post-Harvest Application
✓ Post harvest applications build nutrient reserves within the plant.
✓ Applying nutrients to be stored in the plants at this time can help reduce the amount of required nutrient applications in the following season putting you in a better position for the next season start up.
✓ Rebalances the tree after harvest and feeds the tree in preparation for the next season's crop cycle. Common deficient nutrients after harvest include major elements such as potassium, nitrogen, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, and a variety of micronutrients such as iron, boron, manganese, and zinc.
Post harvest nutrient application should occur after the fruit crop has been harvested and while the leaves of the tree are still in a functional state prior to senescing. Nutrients can be taken up by the plant after the fruit is removed but before the leaves are lost and the roots are still functioning to their full ability.
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