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This work aimed to perform a technical-economic evaluation of the grain production of maize, sorghum and millet, in single-crop and intercropped management systems with Urochloa ruziziensis. The experiment was carried using a randomized blocks design in triplicate, with of six treatments: 1) sorghum single-crop/millet single-crop/maize single-crop (SSC/MILSC/MSC); 2) maize single-crop/sorghum single-crop/millet single-crop (MSC/SSC/MILSC);3) millet single-crop/maize single-crop/sorghum single-crop (MILSC/MSC/SSC); 4) resting/maize intercropped/grass (R/MIC/G); 5) resting/sorghum intercropping/grass (R/SIC/G) and 6) resting/millet intercropping/grass (R/MILIC/G).The variables evaluated were dry matter (DM), rates of production and decomposition, extraction of nutrients byplant shoots, grain yield, harvest index (HI) and conversion efficiency of N-fertilizer (CENF). The final result of totalDM produced after the off-season production in 2008 was, in descending order: MILSC/MSC/SSC > SSC/ MILSC/MSC = R/ MIC/G > MSC/SSC/MILSC = R/SIC/G = R/MILIC/G. No difference in yield was observed between themanagement systems in the 2007/2008 season. Millet had the lowest HI among the grasses and CENF presentedascending order for maize, millet and sorghum.

Nitrogen concentration in plants is normally determined by expensive and time consuming chemical analyses. As an alternative, chlorophyll meter readings and N-NO3 concentration determination in petiole sap were proposed, but these assays are not always satisfactory. Spectral reflectance values of tomato leaves obtained by visible-near infrared spectrophotometry are reported to be a powerful tool for the diagnosis of plant nutritional status. The aim of the study was to evaluate the possibility and the accuracy of the estimation of tomato leaf nitrogen concentration performed through a rapid, portable and non-destructive system, in comparison with chemical standard analyses, chlorophyll meter readings and N-NO3 concentration in petiole sap. Mean reflectance leaf values were compared to each reference chemical value by partial least squares chemometric multivariate methods. The correlation between predicted values from spectral reflectance analysis and the observed chemical values showed in the independent test highly significant correlation coefficient (r = 0.94). The utilization of the proposed system, increasing efficiency, allows better knowledge of nutritional status of tomato plants, with more detailed and sharp information and on wider areas. More detailed information both in space and time is an essential tool to increase and stabilize crop quality levels and to optimize the nutrient use efficiency.

Studying the soil and eucalypt relationships is essential for eucalypts plantation and avoidance of their negative effects on soil productivity. For this purpose, eucalypt species trial consisting of six species (E. camaldulensis, E. macarthurii, E. maidenii, E. rubida, E. saligna, and E. viminalis) planted in 1983 was conducted. Randomized Complete Blocks with four replicates at 2 x 2 m spacing and total number of 100 seedlings at each plot was used for this research. At each plot, three trees were randomly selected and leaf sampling was done for each tree at 1/3 of upper height at the end of summer. The aim of the study was to investigate the nutrients of six eucalypt species planted at Guilan province,Iran. The results showed that there was not significant difference among the replicates regarding the amount of N, P and K, but there was significant difference between the eucalypt species in respect to amount of N. There was significant correlation between K% and P% of eucalypt leaves and some soil characteristics.

Objetivou-se com este trabalho estabelecer modelos matemáticos mais apropriados para estimar a área foliar da cultivar de batata Atlantic, utilizando-se o comprimento (C) e a largura (L) da folha. As avaliações foram realizadas em 270 folhas coletadas aleatoriamente no campo de produção da Universidade Federal de Viçosa, em duas épocas, aos 21 e 50 dias após a emergência das plantas. Em laboratório, foram mensurados o comprimento e a largura das folhas, além da área foliar por um integrador de área foliar. Os dados obtidos foram submetidos à análise de regressão, sendo a AF considerada como uma variável dependente, e o C, a L, o produto do C pela L (CL) e o quadrado do produto do C pela L (CL)² como sendo variáveis independentes. A área foliar foi estimada com maior precisão usando as medidas de comprimento e largura, sendo: AF = 0,369335**CL + 10,6923 (R² = 0,92), aos 21 DAE e AF = 0,470971**CL - 16,3432 (R² = 0,86), aos 50 DAE. Com os modelos propostos, a área foliar da batateira, cultivar Atlantic, pode ser estimada com as medidas de comprimento e largura obtidas diretamente no campo, em tempo real, de forma rápida e sem a necessidade de destruir as folhas e plantas.The objective of this research was to establish the appropriated mathematical model to estimate leaf area of potato cultivar Atlantic using the linear dimensions of the leaf: the length (C) and width (L). The evaluation was performed in 270 leaves, which were randomly collected from a field of Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 21 and 50 days after the plant emergence (DAE). In laboratory, the length, width and area of each leaf were measured by a leaf area meter (model LI 3100). The data were submitted to a regression analysis with the AF value as a dependent variable and the leaf length, width, the product of both (CL), and the square product (CL)² values as independent variables. Potato plant LA was more precisely estimated using measures of length and width: AF = 0,369335**CL + 10,6923 (R² = 0,92) to 21 DAE and AF = 0,470971**CL - 16,3432 (R² = 0,86) to 50 DAE. With the obtained model, AF of potato cultivar Atlantic can be estimated by measures obtained straight from the field, with no the need to damage the leaf or the plant.

A adubação de plantas frutíferas de clima temperado é rotineiramente recomendada em função da interpretação de laudos de análises químicas de solo e folhas, mas não são específicas para as diferentes cultivares e porta-enxertos. Neste contexto, um experimento foi conduzido durante dois anos, com o objetivo de avaliar o estado nutricional de diferentes cultivares de pereira enxertadas sobre o porta-enxerto marmeleiro 'CP', em Guarapuava-PR. As cultivares de pereira Cascatense, Tenra, Hosui, Packham's Triumph e Williams foram plantadas em 2004, em densidade de 2.500 plantas ha-1. Amostras de folhas e de frutos foram coletadas em 2006 e 2007 para análises químicas dos teores de nutrientes. Folhas completas e normais foram amostradas em meados de janeiro, retiradas da parte mediana das brotações do ano. Os frutos foram colhidos quando o teor de sólidos solúveis totais atingiram 10º Brix. As cultivares de pereira apresentaram diferenças em relação aos teores de nutrientes nas folhas e frutos, demonstrando exigências nutricionais distintas. A cv. Cascatense apresentou os maiores teores de N e P nos frutos em, pelo menos, um dos anos avaliados, e a cv. Hosui, os maiores valores para K. A extração de nutrientes pelos frutos situou-se entre 0,366 e 0,825 kg de N; 0,097 e 0,205 kg de P; 0,996 e 1,302 kg de K; 0,085 e 0,049 a 0,085 kg de Ca, e entre 0,041 e 0,095 kg de Mg por tonelada de frutos.The fertilizer applications in deciduous fruit trees are usually recommended in function of chemical soil and leaves analysis interpretation, but they are not specific for the different scion and rootstock cultivars. In this context, a trial was carried out aiming to evaluate the nutritional status of different pear cultivars grafted on rootstock quince 'CP' by two consecutive years, in Guarapuava, Paraná State, Brazil. The pear cultivars Cascatense, Tenra, Hosui, Packham's Triumph and Williams were planted in 2004 at the density planting of 2.500 plants ha-1. Samples of leaves and fruits were collected in 2006 and 2007 for chemical analysis of nutrient contents. Complete and normal leaves were sampled in the end of January, token from the middle part of one-year shoots. The fruits were collected when the total soluble solids content reached 10º Brix. The pear cultivars showed differences in relation to nutrient content in leaves and fruits, indicating distinct nutritional requirements. The cv. Cascatense presented the highest N and P contents in fruits at least in one of the years, and the cv Hosui the highest K content. The nutrient extraction by fruits ranged from 0.366 to 0.825 kg N; 0.097 to 0.205 kg P, 0.996 to 1.302 kg K, 0.049 to 0.085 kg Ca and 0.041 to 0.095 kg Mg per fruit ton.

The Tahiti acid lime in Brazil is mostly grown in the São Paulo State. The value of this crop production ranks among the ten most important fruits in the country. The Brazilian exports of Tahiti limes have increased in the last years with a corresponding increased demand for superior quality of fresh fruits, which is affected by mineral nutrients. Therefore, this study evaluated nutrient soil availability and its influence on nutritional status of trees based on the determination of leaf and fruit nutrient concentrations, fruit characteristics, and post harvest quality. Eleven commercial groves with trees older than 4-yr and differently managed were studied. Plots with six trees in each grove were sampled for soil (0-20 cm depth layer), leaf and fruit analyses with three replicates. Correlation coefficients were pair wised established for all variables. The results showed that N leaf concentration was well correlated with green color of fruit peel as measured by a color index (r = -0.71**), and which was optimum with Leaf-N around 22 g kg-1. Leaf-Ca was inversely correlated with fruit water loss after 14-day interval from harvest (r = -0.54*) demonstrating that Ca plays an important role in Tahiti fruit shelf-life. Data also suggested that increased fruit K concentration correlated with increased fruit water losses during storage (r >0.58*).No Brasil, a lima-ácida Tahiti é produzida principalmente em São Paulo. O valor dessa produção situa-se entre as dez variedades de frutas mais importantes no País. As exportações brasileiras de Tahiti in natura aumentaram significativamente nos últimos anos e têm demandado frutas de qualidade superior. Essas características são afetadas pelos nutrientes minerais. Assim, o trabalho avaliou os efeitos da disponibilidade de nutrientes no solo, sua influência no estado nutricional das plantas e no teor desses nos frutos, e correlações sobre a qualidade de Tahiti, como maneira de criar subsídios para o manejo nutricional adequado de pomares. Foram estudados onze pomares comerciais com plantas em produção, >4 anos de idade, conduzidos com diferentes tipos de manejo. Foram marcadas parcelas com seis plantas em cada local, que representaram unidades de amostragem com três repetições. Dessas unidades, foram coletadas amostras de solo (0-20 cm), de folhas e de frutos maduros para análises físicas e químicas. Realizou-se a análise de correlação múltipla para estimativas dos coeficientes de correlação entre as variáveis de medida, duas a duas. Verificou-se que o teor de N na folha correlacionou-se à intensidade de cor verde do fruto, expresso pelo índice de cor (r = -0,71**), o qual foi ótimo com N nas folhas ao redor de 22 g kg-1. O teor de Ca na folha foi inversamente correlacionado à perda de água do fruto 14 dias após a colheita (r = -0,54*), demonstrando que o Ca desempenha papel importante na vida útil de prateleira da lima-ácida Tahiti. Os dados ainda indicaram que teores elevados de K no fruto contribuem para maiores perdas de água após a colheita (r >0,58*).

Entre os vários métodos de avaliação do estado nutricional das plantas, encontram-se o DRIS e o CND, os quais têm como objetivo, entre outros, ordenar a limitação dos nutrientes na planta. Este trabalho teve como finalidade o desenvolvimento de normas DRIS e CND e a comparação dos diagnósticos realizados por esses métodos, ao avaliar lavouras comerciais de algodão, no município de São Desidério (BA). A base de dados foi constituída pelos teores totais de nutrientes de 65 amostras de folha completa e pela produtividade de algodão em caroço oriundo de talhões com média de 120 ha. Para ajuste do método, a população foi dividida em duas classes: uma com produtividade acima de 4.250 kg ha-1 e outra com produtividade abaixo desta. As melhores respostas em termos de produtividade foram proporcionadas pelo K, Ca e Mn, tanto pelo método DRIS quanto pelo CND. Avaliando a frequência de diagnoses concordantes quanto ao potencial de resposta positivo à adubação, constatou-se que o N (70,8 %) foi o nutriente em que se observou a menor concordância entre os dois métodos (DRIS e CND), no entanto, o método DRIS diagnosticou maior deficiência relativa para o N do que o CND. Quanto aos demais nutrientes avaliados, a frequência de diagnoses concordantes pelo potencial de resposta à adubação esteve em torno de 73,8 % para o Zn a 87,7 % para o P. Com o ajuste dos métodos DRIS e CND, chegou-se a diagnósticos semelhantes em relação ao estado nutricional da cultura do algodoeiro no oeste da Bahia.Among the different methods of assessing the nutritional status of plants, DRIS and CND have the main purpose of ranking the limiting nutrients. This study aimed to develop DRIS and CND norms and compare the diagnoses of these methods in evaluations of cotton cash crops in the region of São Desidério, state of Bahia, Brazil. The database consisted of the total nutrient content of 65 whole leaf samples and seed cotton yield of plots with an average size of 120 ha. To adjust the method the population was divided into two production classes, one with yield above and the other below 4,250 kg ha-1. The best response in terms of yield was observed for potassium, calcium and manganese by DRIS as well as CND. In the assessment of the frequency of concordant diagnoses for the potential of positive response to fertilization, it was found that N (70.8 %) was the nutrient with best agreement between the two methods (DRIS and CND) whereas DRIS diagnosed greater relative deficiency for N than CND. For the other nutrients, the frequency of concordant diagnoses based on the potential response to fertilization was from around 73.8 % for Zn to 87.7 % for P. With the adjustment of the methods DRIS and CND, the diagnoses of the nutritional status of cotton in western Bahia were similar.

A nutrição mineral da videira constitui-se em importante fator para a qualidade dos vinhos. Devido a isso, avaliou-se o efeito de porta-enxertos no teor de nutrientes em diferentes tecidos da videira 'Cabernet Sauvignon' (Vitis vinifera L.) na Serra Gaúcha. o experimento foi conduzido durante o ciclo vegetativo de 2004/2005, com os porta-enxertos Rupestris du lot, 101-14, 3309, 420A, Kober 5BB, 161-49, So4 e Paulsen 1103, enxertados em 1993 com a cv. 'Cabernet Sauvignon'. o delineamento experimental foi em blocos ao acaso, com oito tratamentos e três repetições, sendo quatro plantas/parcela. Coletaram-se folhas - separando-se os pecíolos dos limbos -, cachos - separando-se as bagas das ráquis - e ramos, os quais foram posteriormente secados em estufa e pesados. Analisaram-se os nutrientes n, P, K, Ca e Mg. os resultados mostram que houve efeito significativo do porta-enxerto nos teores de N, P, K, Ca e Mg no limbo, pecíolo, ráquis e baga da videira 'Cabernet Sauvignon' e que este efeito variou em função do nutriente e do tecido considerado. Entretanto, não houve efeito significativo do porta-enxerto no teor desses nutrientes no ramo da videira. Além disso, a ordem de grandeza do teor dos nutrientes variou em função do tecido avaliado. Assim, os teores de n e de Ca foram maiores no limbo; os de P e K, na ráquis; e o de Mg, no pecíolo.Grapevine mineral nutrition is an important factor influencing wine quality. For this, the effect of rootstocks on the nutrient content in different tissues of 'Cabernet Sauvignon' grapevines (Vitis vinifera L.) grown in the Serra Gaúcha region was evaluated. The experiment was carried out during the 2004/2005 vegetative cycle with the rootstocks Rupestris du Lot, 101-14, 3309, 420A, Kober 5BB, 161-49, SO4, and Paulsen 1103. The experimental design was in randomized blocks, with eight treatments, three replicates, four plants/plot. leaves - petioles were separated from the limbs -, clusters - berries were separated from the rachis -, and shoots were collected, dried in an oven, and weighted. N, P, K, Ca, and Mg were analyzed. Results show that there was a significant effect of the rootstock on the contents of N, P, K, Ca, and Mg in limb, petiole, rachis and berry of the 'Cabernet Sauvignon' grapevine. This effect varied as a function of the analyzed nutrient and tissue. But there was not a significant effect on the nutrients present in the shoot. Besides this, nutrient content varied according to the kind of tissue analyzed. In this way, contents of N and Ca were higher in limb; contents of P and K, in rachis; and contents of Mg, in petiole.

A mudança do perfil do consumidor, aliada aos riscos da contaminação por agrotóxicos, tem levado à busca de alternativas ecologicamente apropriadas para produção de frutas. Os objetivos deste trabalho foram avaliar a incidência de antracnose, o desempenho e estado nutricional de variedades de mangueira conduzidas organicamente na região de Pindorama-SP. Foram utilizadas 17 variedades de mangueira. O experimento foi instalado em delineamento experimental em blocos completos ao acaso, com 17 tratamentos (variedades) e seis repetições. Foi avaliada a severidade de antracnose nas folhas, através de uma escala diagramática, atribuindo-se notas aos sintomas. Foram avaliados o crescimento e o desenvolvimento (altura da planta, perímetro do tronco e da copa) e o estado nutricional, mediante análise foliar, das diferentes variedades utilizadas. Através dos resultados obtidos, podem-se considerar como muito suscetíveis à antracnose as variedades Bourbon, Rocha e Rosa; e resistentes, as variedades IAC 111, Alfa, Beta e Parvin; as variedades de manga apresentaram o mesmo padrão de crescimento; as maiores alturas da planta corresponderam aos maiores diâmetros do tronco e da copa; a variedade Parvin apresentou o melhor desempenho dentre as variedades estudadas, com relação à resistência à antracnose, altura e diâmetro do caule e da copa, podendo ser recomendada ao cultivo orgânico. As variedades Omega e Alfa também apresentaram bom crescimento, podendo ser indicadas para esse cultivo, pelo menos nessa fase inicial; as variedades Surpresa e Rosa não apresentaram bom desempenho, no campo, em relação às demais, não devendo ser recomendadas para o cultivo orgânico, principalmente a variedade Rosa, bastante suscetível à antracnose. As concentrações de N, P e K foram elevadas na fase vegetativa das plantas, comparadas |à baixa concentração de Ca; houve carência de Boro em todas as variedades estudadas. A manga Rosa, provavelmente, sofreu toxicidade ao excesso de manganês, ocasionando diminuição em seu desenvolvimento.The consumer's profile change, allied to the risk of toxic substances contamination, is inducing the search for ecological alternatives of fruits production. The objectives of this work were to evaluate the anthracnose incidence, the development and nutritional status of mango varieties organically cultivated in Pindorama, SP. Seventeen mango varieties were used. The experiment was designed in completely randomized blocks, with 17 treatments (varieties) and six replications. The anthracnose severity in leaves was evaluated by a diagrammatic scale, with grades attributed to the symptoms. The growth and development (plant height, stem and crown perimeter) and the nutritional state indicated by leaf analysis were used for evaluation of the varietal behavior. The varieties Bourbon, Rocha and Rosa could be considered very susceptible to anthracnose and IAC 111, Alfa, Beta and Parvin were resistant; the mango varieties presented the same growth pattern; the largest plant heights corresponded to the largest diameters of the stem and crown; the Parvin variety presented the best performance among the varieties in relation to the anthracnose resistance, height and diameter of the stem and crown, and could be recommended for organic cultivation. The Omega and Alfa varieties also presented good development and could be indicated for that cultivation, at least in that initial phase; Surpresa and Rosa varieties did not present good field development in relation to the others, and should not be recommended for the organic cultivation, mainly the variety Rosa, which is quite susceptible to anthracnose. The concentrations of N, P and K were higher in the vegetative phase of the plants, when compared to the low concentration of Ca; there was lack of Boron in all the studied varieties; Rosa variety probably suffered toxicity to the excess of manganese, causing decrease in its development.

O plantio de coqueiro-anão irrigado, com o objetivo de produzir coco para aproveitamento de água, tem se expandido muito no Brasil. As maiores produtividades, obtidas sob irrigação, influenciam nas quantidades de N e de K requeridas pela planta, o que altera as relações entre os seus teores no solo e na planta. Um experimento com plantas de coqueiro-anão, irrigado por microaspersão, foi conduzido em um Argissolo Amarelo da unidade de paisagem dos tabuleiros costeiros no Nordeste do Brasil. Foi utilizada a matriz Pan Puebla III em blocos ao acaso, com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos de fertirrigação foram dez combinações de N e K, utilizando uréia e cloreto de potássio como fontes dos nutrientes, aplicados semanalmente durante 52 meses. Amostras de solo foram coletadas na zona de influência do microaspersor e amostras de folhas foram coletadas nas posições 9 e 14. A aplicação de uréia reduziu o pH e os teores de Ca2+ e Mg2+ no solo. O maior valor de condutividade elétrica do extrato de saturação do solo foi de 0,65 dS m-1, na profundidade 0_5 cm, e decresceu com a profundidade. Os coeficientes de correlação entre os teores de K na folha e no solo, nas profundidades 0_5, 0_20 e 20_40 cm, foram similares, indicando que a amostragem de solo para fertilidade na cultura do coqueiro-anão fertirrigado pode ser feita na profundidade de 0_20 cm. Maior quantidade de massa do fruto e mais volume do albúmen líquido foram obtidos com a menor dose de N, dado o menor número de frutos por árvore. Os tratamentos de N e K não influenciaram o valor do pH da água do coco, porém alteraram o valor do brix. O teor de K na água do coco aumentou com a quantidade de K aplicada e do teor de K na folha. Os níveis críticos de N e K nas folhas 9 e 14 foram 19,2, 20,5, 12,1 e 9,4 g kg-1, respectivamente. O nível crítico de K no solo pelo Mehlich-1, na profundidade 0_20 cm, foi 45 mg dm-3.Irrigated plantations of dwarf coconut for the production of coconut water have expanded considerably in Brazil. Higher yields obtained under irrigation affect the amount of N and K required by dwarf coconut, influencing the relationships between yield and soil and leaf contents of these nutrients. An experiment was set up on an Ultissol in the Brazilian Northeast coastal tablelands, following a Pan Puebla III experimental matrix in a randomized block design. Ten combinations of urea and potassium chloride were weekly injected during 52 months. Soil samples were collected in the irrigated area and leaf samples taken from the leaves 9 and 14. Soil pH, Ca and Mg contents decreased as urea doses increased. The highest electrical conductivity value was 0.65 dS m-1 in the 0_5 cm layer and it decreased with depth. Correlation coefficients between leaf K and soil K in the layers 0_5, 0_20 and 20_40 cm were very similar, indicating that layer 0_20 cm can be sampled for fertility purposes in irrigated coconut. Highest fruit weight and coconut water volume were obtained with the lowest N level, due to the lower number of nuts per tree. Nitrogen and K combinations did not influence the coconut water pH, but increased coconut water brix. The K content in the coconut water increased along the K doses; leaf K and K in the coconut water were directly related. Nitrogen and K critical levels for leaves 9 and 14 were 19.2 and 20.5 g kg-1 and 12.1 and 9.4 g kg-1, respectively. The critical level of soil K by Mehlich-1 in the 0-20 cm layer was 45 mg dm-3.

Foi realizado um experimento de campo no município de Nova Porteirinha, no Norte de Minas Gerais, em Latossolo Vermelho-Amarelo distrófico, com os objetivos de avaliar a resposta da bananeira 'Prata Anã' à aplicação de doses de Zn via solo e estimar os níveis críticos de Zn no solo e nas folhas. Foram aplicadas quatro doses de Zn, correspondentes a 0, 10, 20 e 40 kg ha-1 ano-1 , utilizando-se o sulfato de zinco. Os tratamentos foram dispostos no delineamento em blocos casualizados com três repetições, totalizando 36 parcelas experimentais. Foram avaliados a produtividade de frutos, o teor de Zn no solo (Mehlich-1 e DTPA a pH 7,3) e o teor foliar durante dois anos de cultivo. A produtividade de frutos aumentou com as doses de Zn aplicadas no solo, atingindo, na média de dois anos de cultivo, 22,2 t ha-1 com aplicação da dose de 4,1 kg ha-1 ano-1 de Zn. O nível crítico médio de Zn no solo pelos extratores Mehlich-1 e DTPA foi de 14,5 e 5,2 mg dm-3, respectivamente, e, para Zn foliar, de 15,8 mg kg-1, nas condições edafoclimáticas da região Norte de Minas Gerais.A field experiment was conducted in Nova Porteirinha, MG, Brazil, in a dystrophic Red Yellow Latossol, to detect the response of the banana tree 'Prata Anã' to Zn doses through soil and critical Zn levels in soil and leaves. Four Zn doses were applied, corresponding to 0, 10, 20 and 40 kg ha-1 year-1 , using zinc sulfate as source. The treatments were arranged in a randomized block design, with three repetitions per block, totaling 36 experimental plots. The following traits were evaluated: fruit yield, soil Zn content (Mehlich-1 and DTPA pH 7.3) and leaf Zn, in two cropping years. The fruit yield increased with Zn doses in the soil, reaching an average yield of 22.2 t ha-1 with application of 4.1 kg Zn ha-1 year-1 in two crops. The mean critical level of soil Zn by the extractors Mehlich-1 and DTPA, was 14.5 and 5.2 mg dm-3, respectively and 15.8 mg kg-1 for leaf Zn, in the edaphoclimatic conditions of northern Minas Gerais.

The objective of the present study was to determine the impact of seven variants of organic and mineral preplanting fertilization on the content of the main macronutrients (N, P, K, Ca, Mg) in the leaves of sour cherry trees, Erdi B&#246term&#246 cv., grafted on two types of rootstocks - seedling forms of Mahaleb (IK-M9) and Droganyellow bigarreau. The investigation was carried out during the period 2001-2003 in an experimental orchard at the Institute of Agriculture, Kyustendil. There was no significant effect of the different preplanting fertilization variants on leaf nitrogen content. The trees on rootstock Droganyellow bigarreau responded more pronouncedly to phosphorous and potassium fertilization, which corresponded to the higher leaf phosphorous and potassium content, compared to those on IK-M9. In all variants, there was a trend for a higher calcium concentration in the leaves of the trees on Droganyellow bigarreau. Leaf magnesium level decreased over experimental years, which was more strongly manifested by the trees on Droganyellow bigarreau, whereas in the variants on the Mahaleb rootstock it was of higher values.

An adequate nutritional state of a crop can be kept by means of a well-designed fertilization plan based on the assessment of the nutrient availability throughout the growing season. The objective of this study was to determine the reliability of leaf blade and petiole diagnosis and the period of validity of their references at both flowering and veraison by means of systematic monitoring throughout the complete growing season. The study was carried out in two plots planted with Vitis vinifera L. cv. Graciano within the AOC Rioja (Spain). Blades and petioles were collected throughout a growing season (2006) and total N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu and B concentrations were analyzed in both tissues. Results suggest, in general, that petioles have higher variability and lower analysis reproducibility than blades. Therefore, blade could be a more appropriate tissue to evaluate N, P, K, Ca, and Mg at both flowering and veraison in this variety. Micronutrients in blade and petiole showed different variability behaviour in each of the vineyards studied, therefore, based on our results, it was difficult to determine which one could be the best tissue for the nutritional diagnosis of the ‘Graciano’ variety. Seasonal changes of nutrient concentration in both tissues also confirmed the need for reference values for each tissue and each phenological stage.

Cocoa is an important global commodity. It is mostly grown on small farms by millions of cocoa farmers who depend on the crop for their livelihood. Although potential yields exceed 6000 kg/ha, average farm yields are often around 400 kg/ha. Among the production constraints met by farmers is nutrient limitation. In this review, we compile current knowledge on nutrient cycling in cocoa production systems, nutrient requirements of cocoa, and yield response to fertilizer application in relation to factors such as management, climatic, and soil conditions. Large amounts of nutrients are cycled within cocoa systems, mostly through 5-10 t/ha/yr litter fall. Still, harvesting and small nutrient losses such as leaching lead to nutrient exports causing gradual soil nutrient depletion. Exact nutrient requirements of cocoa are unknown. Leaf and soil test interpretation to identify additional nutrient needs remain ambiguous. Recommended nutrient application rates vary more than 10-fold. In several trials fertilizer application more than doubled cocoa productivity; in other cases response is minimal. Differences in response between regions, fields and even trees have yet to be explained. Interactions with agroecology and management (especially shade) are poorly understood. Without this fundamental knowledge, farm level recommendations have a weak scientific base. Different types of research are recommended to complement current knowledge. Existing data and trials can be exploited through additional analysis and more detailed measurements. Cocoa farms are highly diverse and on-farm trials offer opportunities for understanding variability in production and fertilizer response. Finally, multifactorial shade-fertilizer response trials will be essential to address some of the fundamental knowledge gaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to determine the nutritional status of the walnut orchards leaf sample analysis in Tekirdağ region. For this purpose, 46 leaf samples, which were taken from 44 different walnut orchards located in 32 different villages in Çorlu, Saray, Ergene, Kapaklı, Marmara Ereğlisi, Muratlı, Hayrabolu, Malkara, Şarköy, Çerkezköy Districts and were analyzed. By comparing the results of the leaf samples analysis with the nutrient status limits of the investigated orchards the nutrition status have been studied and determined. According to the results, 84.78% N, 4.39% P, 4.35% K, 2.18% Ca, 4.35% Mg, 4.35% S, 2.18% Fe, 8.69% Cu, 65.21% Zn and 4.35% Mn deficiency were determined. On the other hand, 15.22% N, 89.13% P, 95.65% K, 84.78% Ca, 95.65% Mg, 91.30% S, 97.82% Fe, 89.3% Cu, 34.79% Zn and 84.78% Mn were determined sufficient in leaf samples and 6.58% P, 13.04% Ca, 2.18% Cu and 10.87% Mn were found excess level in leaf samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Realizou-se nos municípios de Jundiaí e Louveira-SP um levantamento do estado nutricional e de produtividade de 20 vinhedos de 'Niagara Rosada' enxertada sobre o porta-enxerto IAC 766 e outros 20 enxertadas sobre o 'Ripária do Traviú'. Coletaram-se amostras de solo a 0-20 e 20-40 cm de profundidade na linha e na entrelinha de plantio e amostras de folha completa, limbo e pecíolo nas épocas de pleno florescimento e no início da maturação das bagas, visando correlacionar com os dados de produtividade. Verificou-se para o porta-enxerto IAC 766 correlações significativas entre a produtividade com os resultados das análises de solo e de folhas. A baixa produtividade verificada esteve relacionada ao excesso de nutrientes no solo, especialmente cálcio e magnésio, em função da calagem e adubação serem realizadas sem levarem em consideração a análise do solo. A produtividade correlacionou-se positivamente com os teores de potássio no solo, a relação K/Mg nas folhas e os teores de potássio nas folhas; e negativamente com a relação (Ca+Mg)/K no solo e os teores de cálcio e magnésio nas folhas, exibindo o antagonismo entre o magnésio e o potássio.An experiment was carried out at Jundiaí and Louveira-SP, to verify the relationships between nutritional and productivity aspects of the table grapevine cv. Niagara Rosada grafted on two different rootstocks: IAC 766 (20 vineyards) and 'Ripária do Traviú' (20 vineyards). Soil samples were collected at 0-20 and 20-40cm depths within rows and inter-rows; samples of leaves, leaf blades and petioles were collected at full bloom and veraison, aiming to correlate them with productivity data. It was observed for the rootstock IAC 766 significant correlations between productivity and results of soil and leaf analysis. The low productivity verified was related to soil nutrients excess, mainly calcium and magnesium, due to the fact that liming and fertilization practices did not consider the soil analysis. The productivity was positively correlated with potassium amount in the soil, K/Mg ratio and potassium contents in the leaves; and it was negatively correlated with (Ca+Mg)/K ratio in the soil, and calcium and magnesium leaf contents, showing an antagonism between magnesium and potassium.

Since 1986 Bulgaria has been part of the International Cooperative Program on Assessment and Monitoring of Air Pollution Effects on Forests (ICP Forests) which contributed to accumulating a significant database on the chemical composition of leaf samples from some widely distributed tree species in Bulgaria. In line with the applied methodology, the set network of sample plots did not extend to the territory of the Central Balkan National Park. The present survey is aimed at expanding the database on the content of some heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Pb, Cd) in leaf samples of beech (Fagus sylvatica) collected within the framework of ICP Forests. In addition, some new information about the territory of the Park necessary for its future monitoring is also presented. After expansion and supplementing, the created database makes it possible to determine the mean values of heavy metal content in beech leaves for the region of Central Balkan National Park. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diagnosis and remediation of nutrient constraints in perennial fruit crop like citrus are the two important pillars of an effective nutrient management program. Efforts were made to develop nutrient indexing (NI) criteria based on generated leaf and soil analysis dataset for “Kinnow” mandarin (Citrus deliciosiaLour. ×Citrus nobilisTanaka) grown on illitic soils of Indogangetic plains (Entisol, Inceptisol, and Aridisol). NI through diagnosis and recommendation integrated system (DRIS) using leaf analysis data showed optimum value of leaf nutrient concentration as 2.22–2.32% nitrogen (N), 0.11–0.15% phosphorus (P), 1.10–1.41% potassium (K), 2.32–2.79% calcium (Ca), 0.38–0.61% magnesium (Mg), 22.4–58.3 ppm iron (Fe), 26.3–56.2 ppm manganese (Mn), 4.2–7.2 ppm copper (Cu), and 21.3–26.9 ppm zinc (Zn) vis-à-vis a fruit yield of 32.4–56.1 kg tree−1. Using these NI criteria, Zn was observed as most deficient (64.7%) followed by Fe (61.5%), Mn (57.6%), N (96.1%), and P (38.5%) using percentage of orchards as basis. While, optimum NI (mg kg−1) using soil analysis data was determined as 114.3–121.2 potassium permanganate (KMnO4-N), 7.8–12.3 Olsen-P, 96.4–131.3 ammonium acetate (NH4OAc)-K, 189.4–248.6 NH4OAc-Ca, 72.3–89.9 NH4OAc-Mg, 5.8–11.1, DTPA-Fe, 4.3–6.9 diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA)-Mn, 0.45–0.69 DTPA-Cu, and 21.3–26.9 DTPA-Zn for the optimum yield of 32.4–56.1 kg tree−1. Soil analysis-based NIs displayed a good complementary with leaf analysis-based NIs evident from the diagnoses indicating Mn (52.2%) as most dominant constraint Zn (61.2%) followed by Mn (48.3%), N (41.2%), and P (35.6%). The recommended DRIS-based NIs would lay a scientific basis in formulating citrus fertilization program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Green manures have been used as biomass producers and suppliers of nutrients and keep the soil productive potential in tropical regions. The objective of this study was to evaluate the production of dry biomass and nutrient concentration and accumulation in plants of green manure in two cropping systems, without associating and associated with millet and its influence on the nutritional status of the bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in succession in agroecological production. Four legumes (Canavalia ensiformis Adans; Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.; Crotalaria juncea L.; Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC) and one grass (Pennisetum glaucum L.) as association plant, were evaluated. A randomized block design was used, with eight treatments and four repetitions. The green manure plants were cut and left on the ground at 60 days after planting and bean was planted 20 days after cutting the manure plants. The evaluated variables were dried biomass production, nutrient content of green manure and nutrient content in leaves of beans in succession. The production of dry biomass of green manure was higher than 9.00 t ha-1. Mucuna stood out with the greatest tenors of N, Ca, Mg, pork beans with the highest tenors of K, Cu, Mn. The greatest accumulation of P, K and Ca nutrients was in pigeon pea. The highest values of N and Mg were obtained in mucuna. Higher C / N relation was obtained in crotalaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted in Isparta province to investigate the mineral nutritional status of apple orchards by means of leaf analysis. For this purpose, seven districts were chosen and ten orchards from each district were selected. Leaf samples were taken during two years from the chosen trees. Leaf analyses results indicated that there was no Mg deficiency in trees. Similarly 97% of orchards did not show N deficiency. The most important nutritional problem was Zn nutrition, and 80% of the orchards showed Zn deficiency. On the other hand, 69, 64, 24 and 11% of the orchards showed P, Ca, K and Mn deficiencies, respectively. Finally, it was concluded that soils were fertilized sufficiently with N, but some important nutritional problems continued. Therefore; special fertilization programs should be applied for other nutrients specially for Zn, P and Ca as well

A test survey was conducted to determine the nutritional status of apple trees grown at four highly productive orchards in south of Jordan. Leaf and soil samples were taken from each orchard, and analyzed for the concentrations of macro- and micronutrients. Soils of Al-Shoubak tend to have high pH, low organic matter and high CaCO3 contents. The results showed that soil concentrations of N, K, Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu varied widely among the orchards. No deficiency or hunger signs of N, P, K, Mn and Zn nutrients were observed at any of the localities since concentrations of leaf nutrients were generally within the sufficient range, indicating adequate lev-els of fertilization applied to the trees. The leaf analysis has shown that Cu deficien-cy is found in some apple orchards. Soils and leaf nutrient levels were generally not well correlated with one another. The only highly significant correlation was be-tween soil P and leaf N. However, positive relations were observed among leaf P and Mn, Fe and Mn, Fe and Zn, and Mn and Zn contents.

The evaluation of the nutritional status in eucalypt (Eucalyptus grandis W. Hill ex Maid.) forests through vegetal tissue analyses what reflects water and nutrient flows in the system, and represents a complementary tool to soil analysis can be helpful to raise and maintain the forest productivity at high levels. This study compared the use of the Diagnosis and Recommendation Integrated System (DRIS), Modified-DRIS (M-DRIS), and Compositional Nutrient Diagnosis (CND) diagnose methods in eucalypt stands in Central-Eastern Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Data of productivity and of N, P, K, Ca, and Mg leaf contents in 993 Eucalyptus grandis stands aging between 72 and 153 months, planted on six sites in 3 ´ 2 m spacing, were used. The nutritional status was diagnosed by the DRIS, M-DRIS, and CND methods, and validated by the chi-square (c²) test applied to the nutrients diagnosed as primary limiting by deficiency. These three methods were compared to each other based on the diagnosis concordance frequency (DCF) derived from the fertilization response potential (FRP) by the criteria considering each nutrient separately; from all (5) to none (0); and only the primary limiting nutrients by either deficiency or excess. The diagnosis concordance level among the methods was procedure-dependent, and varied according to the nutrient concentration in trees.

Analysis of leaf nutrient contents can demonstrate plant nutritional status, identify symptoms of deficiency and toxicity, and evaluate the need to adjust fertilization programs. This research determined N:P:K:Ca:S rates for optimal nutrition of Rangpur lime - RL (Citrus limonia Osb.) rootstock, in an experiment arranged in a fractional factorial design of the (¹/25) 5(4) type, with 25 treatments distributed within five blocks. Seedlings of RL were transplanted into 3.8-dm³ containers filled with commercial growing media, when plant height = 10 cm, in a nursery. Treatments consisted of the following nutrient rates (g per plant): N = 0.31, 0.62, 1.25, 2.5 and 5; K = 0.4, 0.62, 1.25, 2.5 and 5; P = 0.35, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0 and 4.0; and Ca = 3.5, 5.0, 6.0, 7.0 and 8.0. Phosphorus and Ca were applied to the compost before transplant of seedlings, while N and K were applied later and total amounts were split into 20 weekly applications via fertigation. Nutrient sources were triple super phosphate, gypsum, NH4NO3 and KCl. Leaf nutrient concentrations of five-mo-old plants were high or in excess for N, P, K and S. Calcium and Mg concentrations were low. Greater dry mass of plants were observed at nutrient rates of N = 3.5, P = 2.7, K = 2.0, and Ca = 6.5 g per plant.A determinação das concentrações foliares representa o estado nutricional das plantas, identifica deficiências e/ou excessos e avalia a necessidade de ajustar as adubações. Este trabalho objetivou determinar a melhor combinação de doses NPKCa e S que proporcione a concentração foliar responsável pela maior quantidade de matéria seca total das plantas de porta-enxerto limoeiro `Cravo', em um experimento fatorial fracionário (¹/25) 5(4), com 25 tratamentos, repartidos em cinco blocos de cinco tratamentos. As mudas do limoeiro `Cravo' (Citrus limonia Osb.) foram transplantadas para recipientes (3,8 dm³) com substrato comercial, em viveiro telado, quando atingiram 10 cm. Os tratamentos consistiram de combinações das seguintes doses (g por planta): N = 0,31; 0,62; 1,25; 2,5 e 5; K = 0,4; 0,62; 1,25; 2,5 e 5; P = 0,35; 1,0; 2,0; 3,0 e 4,0; e Ca = 3,5; 5,0; 6,0; 7,0 e 8,0. O P e o Ca foram misturados ao substrato de uma vez antes do transplantio e o N e o K após o transplantio, divididos em 20 aplicações semanais. As fontes utilizadas para os tratamentos foram superfosfato triplo, gesso, NH4NO3 e KCl. As concentrações foliares aos cinco meses de idade situaram-se na faixa alta, para os nutrientes N, P, K e S, e baixa para Ca e Mg. As doses que proporcionaram a maior produção de matéria seca e melhores concentrações foliares foram N = 3,5; P = 2,7; K = 2,0; e Ca = 6,5 g por planta.