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Schumann - Citrus Industry Magazine
Evaluation of technology to assist citrus production I: Variable Rate Fertilization - Getting started
AW Schumann and HK Hostler
Abstract. This is the first of two articles discussing variable rate fertilization (VRF) for Florida citrus and will introduce the concept of variable rate technology and how it can potentially impact Florida citrus production. Due to the recent spread of citrus canker and citrus greening in Florida, there will be more tree removal and replacement by nursery trees. With different sized trees in the grove, VRF becomes increasingly important. Variable rate granular fertilizer spreaders use sensors, computers and GPS technology to continuously monitor citrus trees along the row in order to make adjustments to the rate of fertilizer delivered to each tree. Most importantly, spaces with missing trees are never fertilized, which significantly reduces unnecessary nutrients, fertilizer costs per acre and ground water pollution while discouraging weed growth. Advantages, essential equipment, and basic setup procedures for a variable rate granular fertilizer spreader are discussed. Two examples given show a typical 23-38% reduction in fertilizer used when variable rates are applied.
