137-19 Open Hydroponics Reduces Nitrate Leaching and Increases Nutrient Efficiencies In Citrus.



Monday, October 17, 2011
Henry Gonzalez Convention Center, Hall C, Street Level

Arnold W. Schumann1, Kevin H. Hostler1, Kirandeep K. Mann1 and Laura Waldo2, (1)Citrus Research and Education Center, University of Florida, Lake Alfred, FL
(2)CREC, UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA, LAKE ALFRED, FL
During the past 2.5 years the “open hydroponics” (OH) method of advanced crop production has been intensively studied for proof of concept and adaptation to a new method of growing citrus in Florida. A major incentive for the improved, more efficient citrus production system is the need to remain economically viable despite an increasing incidence of introduced diseases such as citrus greening or Huanglongbing (HLB). The foundation of a successful OH system is based on early, high yields, made possible through 1) high density planting, and 2) accelerated growth from optimal balanced nutrition and water relations achieved with precise computerized fertigation. This paper will discuss the outcomes from 2.5 years of ‘Hamlin’ orange growth in a replicated Central Florida field experiment. Recent results of fruit yield and quality, fertilizer and water use, nitrate-nitrogen leaching, and pest and disease control will be discussed.
See more from this Division: S06 Soil & Water Management & Conservation
See more from this Session: Agricultural Practices to Increase Nitrogen-Use Efficiency, Carbon Sequestration, and Greenhouse Gas Mitigation : II