Stone Fruit

Phosphorus and magnesium increase apricot, plum or cherry fruit number, although the effect of nitrogen on the number of fruits per tree is not clear.

There are a number of variables that define stone fruit quality requirements. Quality standards differ depending on the stone fruit type, growth region and the market.

Firmness of stone fruit flesh is affected by a wide range of parameters including nutrition. Fruits with high levels of calcium are firmer and good calcium supply delays ripening and increases storability of fruits.

Most nutrients, namely N, P, K, Mg, B and Mn are stored and retained as reserves in the tree buds, trunk and roots.

The ratio of sugar content versus acidity and gives stone fruits their characteristic flavour. An appropriate crop nutrition programme helps manage an acceptable TSS/Acidity balance in fruit.

Stone fruit nutrient requirements vary depending on the crop growth stage. Find out which nutrients are most important and the roles of nutrients at different growth stages.