Macronutrient extraction by fig tree branches and fruits in response to potassium fertilizers

Abstract

This experiment aimed at evaluating macronutrient extraction by branches and fruits of fig plants (Ficus carica L.) Roxo of Valinhos, in increasing potassium levels fertilization conditions, during orchard establishment and formation. The experiment was carried out in soil of low exchangeable potassium levels, in the Fazenda Experimental Lageado's orchard, belonging to Faculdade de Ciências Agronômicas, Campus of Botucatu. The experimental design was randomized blocks with four replications and six treatments, with parcels subdivided in time. The treatments consisted of six potassium fertilization levels (0, 30, 60, 90, 120 and 150 g of K₂O plant^-1) applied to covering during two agricultural years. The evaluations were performed in winter pruning branches and fruit harvest during production time. Significant differences occurred for macronutrients extraction in the branches and fruits, exclusively as effect of dry mass higher production in the treatments with superior potassium levels, where the highest amounts had been exported by the fruits. Macronutrients extraction by fruits and branches was N > K > Ca > Mg > P > S, respectively.