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Interpretive Summaries:
2011 - Can Tart Cherry Yield and Fruit Quality be Increased with Improved Phosphorus and Potassium Management?
2010 - Utah-specific Potassium and Phosphorus Nutrient Management for Tree Fruit Productivity and Quality
Utah-Specific Potassium and Phosphorus Nutrient Management for Tart Cherry Productivity and Quality, 2010
Tart cherries, also called sour or pie cherries, are best known as ingredients in desserts and beverages. Nearly all tart cherries are frozen, canned, or dried. Fertilizer recommendations for cherry production in Utah are very old or not in existence. Improved fertilizer management is known to increase fruit yields, improve cherry quality and color, improve the health benefits of the fruit, and enhance grower profitability. The first-year study established single-tree plots that received variable P and K application in a factorial design from multiple P and K fertilizer sources. Applications were made to all trees in May and again in June for some treatments. Leaf and fruit samples were collected during the growing season and analyzed for nutrients. Fruit yield and quality were monitored at harvest. The experiment is conducted on three sites: two commercial orchards and one research farm.
In the first full year after establishment of treatments, the trees had very high cherry yield due to their alternate bearing pattern. Yields were generally greatest when a 1:1:1 ratio of N:P:K was applied in May and again in June. The chemical analysis of tissue samples is still underway. With most tree experiments, it is important to repeat the measurements for multiple years. This helps to account for weather variables, alternate bearing patterns, and the nutrient reserve stored within the tree that can mask short-term nutritional changes. The continuation of this study will lead to improved production levels and better leaf diagnostic tools. UT-07F
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