While cold fronts sweep across much of the United States, Florida citrus growers are gearing up for another busy bloom season. When it comes to setting yield potential, the importance of citrus bloom cannot be understated. To produce the fruit that turns into dollars, citrus trees must first complete a variety of complex physiological processes to flower strong at bloom. Provide the energy and strength citrus crops need during this critical growth stage with an efficient, well-balanced nutritional program.
Any good fertility program relies on a solid fertilizer foundation. However, not every fertilizer will meet the growing nutritional needs of citrus crops during reproduction. With a slow-release foliar fertilizer, you can provide immediate nutrition with extended uptake to continue feeding throughout the bloom cycle. Coron® 28-0-0 contains 70% slow-release nitrogen with adhesive properties to keep the application on target. When applied directly to the plant, it provides longer availability for more efficient plant uptake.
In addition to nitrogen, citrus crops need a balance of macro and micronutrients for a strong bloom. Brexil® CBZ delivers a safe, readily available source of calcium, boron and zinc – nutrients required for flowering and setting quality fruit. Unlike other foliar nutritionals, it reduces the potential to dry out flowers while maximizing foliar uptake of these vital nutrients.
With the right nutrition in place, citrus crops need a high level of energy to take up and put those nutrients to work. Utilize® increases the production of polyamines which are essential to the reproductive process. It also increases chlorophyll production and enhances photosynthesis, which boosts crop energy. With more energy, citrus crops can increase uptake and utilization of soil- and foliar-applied nutrients. As a result, yield potential and quality can be enhanced with improved fruit set, development and retention.
These foliar nutritionals are compatible with pre-bloom insecticides, making it possible to provide the protection and strength citrus crops need in one pass. However, bloom sprays are only effective if they reach their target. They need an adjuvant in the tank for best results. Joint Venturel® improves efficacy with excellent spreading and more thorough coverage. It reduces evaporation and helps penetrate plant tissue to help ensure bloom sprays are delivered where they’re needed most.
From NPK and micronutrients to reproduction and pest management, there are a variety of factors to consider at citrus bloom. That’s why Helena has created a citrus bloom package to simplify decision making and help you choose the right bloom solutions for your crop. To learn more about this opportunity, contact your local Helena representative for more information.