Maintain adequate and balanced tree nutrition and water supply

If fruitlets are to expand and develop into high quality large fruits at the time of harvest it is essential to maintain adequate supplies of water and nutrients to the tree throughout the growing season.

Water needs are estimated using calculations of water deficits based on evapotranspiration or are measured using various other systems (neutron probes, tensiometers etc.).

• Ensure that the trees are supplied with adequate water and nutrients so as to maintain the cell expansion and growth of apple fruitlets.
• Monitor water requirements regularly, using calculations of evapotranspiration or other equipment marketed to measure soil water levels.
• Check soil and leaf nutrient levels regularly and adjust nutrition accordingly.