2005 Annual Report for GS05-048
The Effects of Different Organic Apple Production Systems on Seasonal Variation of Soil Properties and Foliar Nutrient Concentration
Summary
Four ground cover management systems were tested for organic production in the Southern region; 1) mowed control, 2) plastic woven landscape fabric, 3) wood chip mulch, and 4) shredded commercial paper mulch. Soil below the shredded paper mulch had greater [Ca], [Na], and [Zn]. Leaf [K] was the greatest for trees grown with bark chip mulch. The seasonal foliar [N], [P], and [K] decreased, and [Ca] and [Mg] increased during the season for all treatments. Soil pH decreased during the season and was affected by treatments. Water infiltration was faster into soil covered with paper mulch. Organic matter was greater under the wood chip mulch at 15 cm soil.
Objectives/Performance Targets
- To evaluate seasonal available nutrient content and availability in soil and the nutrient concentration in apples foliage in an organic orchard with varied ground cover management systems and varied nutrition sources
Accomplishments/Milestones
Seasonal variations of nutrient concentrations in soil and apple leaves, soil properties, weed density, and tree performance were observed for response to ground cover managements systems in 2005. Very little weed invasion occurred in the landscape fabric throughout whole season, and the treatment resulted in greater N concentration in the leaves during whole season. The new organic orchard was established for long term interaction by different organic fertilizers and ground cover systems in 2006.
Impacts and Contributions/Outcomes
The investigation will be continued in 2006. Additional observation for the experiment will include soil solution, water availability, soil temperature, soil bulk density, and root density. Observing the seasonal soil nutrition under organic plots will provide information of the correct time and proper quantities of fertilizers. The data will show the best organic farming system under different organic fertilizers and mulches.