MANURING APPLE TREES.

King Country Chronicle, Volume VII, Issue 586, 19 July 1913, Page 7

MANURING APPLE TREES.

Although apple trees may not require any large applications of fertilisers, and indeed, seem able to prosper fairly well even on poor soil, still, if the yearly produce from an orchard is to be maintained at satisfactory level, the trees must be properly nourished. It is only a natural conclusion that if a tree bears a big crop, both tree and surrounding soil must be proportionately impoverished and require the support of fresh nourishment. What form should this nourishment take'' A French professor of agriculture in a district devoted largely to the production of cider apples has been studying the subject closely for some year 3, and has recently published his views. As regards nitrogen, the assistance of this stimulant, in his opinion, is very necessary; it promotes the growth of fresh wood. The use of farmyard manure and concentrated nitrogenous fertilisers are desirable for young trees, which should be pushed on, and for old, enfeebled trees that require to be rendered more vigorous. Phosphoric acid is also essential; it especially helps the trees in the flowering period and in the ripening of the crop. The application of basic slag in the autumn and winter or superphosphate in the spring is most suitable. The part that potash plays in apple culture is very important. It has been found that trees growing in soils rifih in potash yield the most abundant and delicate fruit. It is this constituent that is supposed to give to apples their aroma, their colour, and their special flavour. Potash can be supplied in either of the commercial forms sulphate, muriate of potash, or kainit. As to the quality of manure to be given to trees, naturally, it varies according to the several factors—the character of the soil, the 'development of the trees, their age and productive capacity. It is poor policy to neglect an apple orchard, when by the exercise of care in looking after the trees, keeping them free from pests, and nourishing them by the application of manures, the pleasure and the profit derived from the orchard can be so greatly increased,