The importance of nutrition
In the first years after planting, the seedlings have not fully developed a root system and have increased nutrient needs. The limited absorption capacity of the soil makes it critical to have a proper external supply of essential elements. A balanced fertilization enhances:
The creation of a strong root structure,
The increase of foliage and photosynthetic capacity,
The stable differentiation of shoots and flower buds,
The efficient use of water and inputs,
Reduced vulnerability to abiotic and biotic stress.
Application time
Fertilisation starts from the first year, with the following applications:
Spring (basic application): before the start of germination, on trees in the establishment phase. It is recommended for nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.
Summer (supplementary application): in cases of increased needs (e.g. intensive growth, poor soil, poor installation).
Autumn (alternatively): especially for P and K, with the aim of enhancing the storage of elements in the root system.
Nutrients and indicative doses
Nitrogen (N): useful for rapid germination, but overdose leads to sensitive tissues, delayed woodiness and frost hazards. Best combined with organic matter for slow release.
Phosphorus (P2O5): active in primary root formation, bud differentiation and good establishment. It should be added before or during planting, as it is difficult to move in the soil.
Potassium (K2O): affects cellular osmoregulation, drought resistance and pathogen tolerance. A critical factor for the vigour of young tissues and the wood/vegetation ratio.
Ways of application
The correct placement of the fertiliser contributes to efficient uptake:
-Circular, around the rooting zone (not on the trunk).
-Light incorporation with a hoe or surface incorporation with irrigation water.
-In hydrofertilization systems, the fertilizer is applied in sections per week or month, at low concentration doses (e.g. 5-10 g/tree/application).
Supplementary elements and trace elements
-Boron(B): involved in the differentiation of flower buds.
-Zinc (Zn): regulates the production of growth fibres and helps in the formation of new shoots.
-Magnesium (Mg): critical for chlorophyll, essential for the establishment of photosynthesis.
They are mainly applied transhumantly, in small doses of 0.2-0.5%, and always at stages of vigorous vegetative growth.
Indicative doses per crop
Olive: 1st year 150-250 g/tree, gradual increase up to 300-500 g.
Apple, Pear: 150-300 g/tree, special attention to phosphorus in the first two years.
Peach, apricot, plum: 150-350 g/tree, depending on growth rate and soil fertility.
Common mistakes and pitfalls
Excess nitrogen without corresponding coverage of other elements.
Application in dry soil without irrigation → reduced root disintegration and root shock.
Failure to perform foliar or soil analysis, leading to arbitrary fertilisation.
Close application to the trunk, causing burns and damage to the neck of the tree.
Conclusion
Early and well-balanced fertilization of young trees is an investment for the long-term profitability of the plantation. The technical precision of the doses, the timing and the adaptation to the actual needs of the soil and the crop ensure vigorous growth, early fruiting and resistance of the tree to external stresses.
