By Jamie D. Burrow, Taylor Livingston and Tripti Vashisth
Before huanglongbing (HLB), citrus grew well in Florida because of the climate and sandy soil. Trees had strong structural roots and a wealth of feeder roots. Since the continued tree decline caused by HLB, root systems have become smaller and weaker.
By improving the physio-chemical properties of the sandy soil, it retains water and nutrients, thereby allowing the tree to do less work (less stress) by relying on readily available soil resources. Adding soil amendments is a management strategy that benefits HLB-affected trees.
ADVANTAGES OF APPLYING AMENDMENTS
- Improved tree health
- Leads to better productivity
- Healthier soil composition
- Reduced water and nutrient input
CONSIDERATIONS
- Long-term
- Cost
- Some options are best for new plantings only
- Use existing equipment for application (e.g., fertilizer spreader or disc)
EVENT DETAILS
The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), in collaboration with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), will be hosting a workshop for all ag producers on Wednesday, July 15, at the Citrus Research and Education Center (CREC) in Lake Alfred. Research updates will be presented on the application of biochar and compost for Florida citrus.
In addition, NRCS local, regional and state representatives will explain the 336 program, which provides financial incentives to growers who apply biochar and compost. Details of the program criteria, application process and grower requirements will be discussed.
There will also be multiple biochar and compost distributors on-site to discuss product options and availability.
The meeting will begin at 9 a.m. and conclude with a catered lunch. There is no cost to attend, but pre-registration is required. Handouts will also be provided.
Improving soil health is a long-term process that provides many benefits. Attend the upcoming workshop to learn what you can do to improve the soil health of your groves, along with financial incentives to reduce costs.
Register for the workshop here.
Jamie D. Burrow is Extension program manager, Taylor Livingston is a biological scientist, and Tripti Vashisth is associate center director and professor, all at the UF/IFAS CREC in Lake Alfred.
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